FAQ About Baseball Opening Day

Jackie Robinson's Debut (1947): On April 15, 1947, Jackie Robinson made history by breaking the color barrier in Major League Baseball when he played his first game for the Brooklyn Dodgers.

Hank Aaron's Record-tying Home Run (1974): Hank Aaron hit his 714th career home run on Opening Day, tying Babe Ruth's record. He would later break the record, finishing his career with 755 home runs.

Derek Jeter's Final Opening Day (2014): In his final season with the New York Yankees, Derek Jeter had an emotional Opening Day at Yankee Stadium, capping it off with a game-winning hit.

Fernando Valenzuela's No-Hitter (1990): On Opening Day, Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Fernando Valenzuela threw a no-hitter against the St. Louis Cardinals, becoming the only pitcher to achieve this on Opening Day.

Frank Robinson's Four Home Runs (1975): Playing for the Cleveland Indians, Frank Robinson hit four home runs on Opening Day against the New York Yankees, a remarkable feat that has yet to be matched.

Mark Fidrych's Complete Game (1976): Detroit Tigers pitcher Mark Fidrych, known as "The Bird," threw a complete game on Opening Day in 1976, capturing the attention of fans with his eccentric behavior on the mound.

George Bell's Three Home Runs (1988): Toronto Blue Jays outfielder George Bell hit three home runs on Opening Day against the Kansas City Royals.

Tuffy Rhodes' Three Home Runs (1994): Playing for the Chicago Cubs, Tuffy Rhodes hit three home runs on Opening Day against Dwight Gooden and the New York Mets.

Cleveland Indians' Snow Game (2007): The Cleveland Indians played the Seattle Mariners in a game with heavy snowfall on Opening Day, creating a visually stunning and memorable scene.

Ichiro Suzuki's Inside-the-Park Home Run (2012): In his first at-bat with the Seattle Mariners, Ichiro Suzuki hit an inside-the-park home run on Opening Day.