Test Your Knowledge Of The History Of Baseball
Abner Doubleday invented baseball in Cooperstown, New York, during the summer of 1839. Doubleday became a Civil War hero, while baseball became America's national pastime. Baseball is played with a bat, a ball, and gloves between two teams of nine players. Test how much you know about this awesome game by taking the quiz below.
- 1.
Who was the lone dissenter when the Major League players voted to strike in 1980, the vote was 967-1?
- A.
Jerry Terrell
- B.
Steve Garvey
- C.
Ron Oester
- D.
Rick Camp
Correct Answer
A. Jerry TerrellExplanation
Jerry Terrell was the lone dissenter when the Major League players voted to strike in 1980. This means that out of the 968 players who voted, Terrell was the only one who voted against the strike. The other options, Steve Garvey, Ron Oester, and Rick Camp, were not the lone dissenter in the vote.Rate this question:
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- 2.
What is the location of the first baseball stadium to be named after William Wrigley?
- A.
Los Angeles, California
- B.
Columbus, Ohio
- C.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- D.
Chicago, Illinois
Correct Answer
A. Los Angeles, California -
- 3.
What baseball park was used for the baseball scenes in the movie "Rhubarb"?
- A.
Seals Stadium, San Francisco, California
- B.
Los Angeles Coliseum, California
- C.
Yankee Stadium. New York City
- D.
Wrigley Field, Chicago
Correct Answer
D. Wrigley Field, ChicagoExplanation
The correct answer is Wrigley Field, Chicago. Wrigley Field is a historic baseball park located in Chicago, Illinois. It is known for its ivy-covered outfield walls and is the home stadium of the Chicago Cubs. "Rhubarb" is a movie that features baseball scenes, and Wrigley Field was used as the baseball park for these scenes.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Who was the first African American player to be featured on a baseball card?
- A.
Jackie Robinson
- B.
Dan Bankhaed
- C.
Satchel Paige
- D.
Jimmy Claxton
Correct Answer
D. Jimmy ClaxtonExplanation
Jimmy Claxton was the first African American player to be featured on a baseball card. This recognition is significant as it symbolizes the breaking of racial barriers in the sport. Jackie Robinson is often associated with breaking the color barrier in Major League Baseball, but he was not the first African American player to be featured on a baseball card. Dan Bankhead and Satchel Paige were also notable African American players, but they were not the first to be featured on a baseball card either.Rate this question:
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- 5.
What nickname did Satchel Paige call his fastball?
- A.
Long Tom
- B.
Bat Buzzer
- C.
No-Opportunity
- D.
Mister Invisible
Correct Answer
A. Long TomExplanation
Satchel Paige called his fastball "Long Tom" because it was known for its incredible speed and distance. This nickname suggests that his fastball was so powerful that it could travel a long distance, making it difficult for batters to hit.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Which Minor League team was the first to win 27 games in a row?
- A.
Johnson City, Tennessee
- B.
Peekskill, New York
- C.
Louisville, Kentucky
- D.
Corsicana, Texas
Correct Answer
D. Corsicana, TexasExplanation
Corsicana, Texas is the correct answer because they were the first Minor League team to win 27 games in a row.Rate this question:
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- 7.
What Major Leaguer knocked out author Ernest Hemingway in 1942?
- A.
Hugh Casey
- B.
Ted Williams
- C.
Joe DiMaggio
- D.
Virgil Trucks
Correct Answer
A. Hugh CaseyExplanation
In 1942, Major Leaguer Hugh Casey knocked out author Ernest Hemingway.Rate this question:
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- 8.
What baseball Hall of Famer was nicknamed "The Duke of Tralee"?
- A.
Roger Bresnahan
- B.
Nap Lajoie
- C.
George Kell
- D.
Tim Keefe
Correct Answer
A. Roger BresnahanExplanation
Roger Bresnahan was nicknamed "The Duke of Tralee" because he was born in Tralee, Ireland. He was a baseball Hall of Famer known for his versatility and innovation as a player. Bresnahan played multiple positions, including catcher and outfielder, and was one of the first players to use protective equipment, such as shin guards and a batting helmet. His nickname "The Duke of Tralee" pays homage to his Irish heritage and birthplace.Rate this question:
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- 9.
What player was nicknamed "Death to all Flying Things"?
- A.
Gary Maddox
- B.
Jake Beckley
- C.
Goose Goslin
- D.
Bob Ferguson
Correct Answer
D. Bob FergusonExplanation
Bob Ferguson was nicknamed "Death to all Flying Things" because of his exceptional fielding skills. During his career as a professional baseball player in the late 19th century, Ferguson played primarily as a second baseman and was known for his ability to catch fly balls with ease. His remarkable fielding skills earned him the nickname, as he seemed to be able to catch any ball hit into the air. Ferguson's nickname reflects his dominance in the outfield and his ability to prevent opposing players from scoring runs.Rate this question:
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- 10.
What minor league team did Mickey Mantle debut with?
- A.
Duncan, Oklahoma
- B.
Chanute, Kansas
- C.
Sweetwater, Texas
- D.
Binghampton, New York
Correct Answer
B. Chanute, KansasExplanation
Mickey Mantle debuted with the minor league team in Chanute, Kansas. This means that he played his first professional baseball game with this team.Rate this question:
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- 11.
What Minor League did Willie Mays debut in?
- A.
Interstate League
- B.
Coastal Plain League
- C.
Mountain States League
- D.
Western League
Correct Answer
A. Interstate LeagueExplanation
Willie Mays debuted in the Interstate League.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Who was known as "The Babe Ruth of the Minors"?
- A.
Moose Claybaugh
- B.
Bob Crues
- C.
Nick Cullop
- D.
Joe Bauman
Correct Answer
C. Nick CullopExplanation
Nick Cullop was known as "The Babe Ruth of the Minors" because of his exceptional performance and record-breaking achievements in the minor leagues. Similar to Babe Ruth, Cullop was a powerful hitter and set numerous home run records during his career in the minor leagues. His impressive batting skills and prolific home run hitting earned him the nickname "The Babe Ruth of the Minors."Rate this question:
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- 13.
What Major League Baseball player was nicknamed "Scrap Iron"?
- A.
Clint Courtney
- B.
Marty Marion
- C.
Billy Martin
- D.
Eddie Waitkus
Correct Answer
A. Clint CourtneyExplanation
Clint Courtney was nicknamed "Scrap Iron" because of his gritty and tough playing style. He was known for his aggressive and hard-nosed approach to the game, always giving his best effort on the field. The nickname "Scrap Iron" reflects his tenacity and determination as a player, making him a memorable figure in Major League Baseball.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Who was baseball's first $100,000 bonus player?
- A.
Wes Parker
- B.
Paul Pettit
- C.
Joey Jay
- D.
Steve Chilcott
Correct Answer
B. Paul PettitExplanation
Paul Pettit was baseball's first $100,000 bonus player.Rate this question:
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- 15.
At what ballpark did Larry Doby pinch-hit to break the color barrier in the American League?
- A.
Comiskey Park
- B.
Yankee Stadium
- C.
Briggs Stadium
- D.
Connie Mack Stadium
Correct Answer
A. Comiskey ParkExplanation
Larry Doby pinch-hit to break the color barrier in the American League at Comiskey Park.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Who hit the first home run to set off the fireworks in Comiskey Park's scoreboard?
- A.
Al Smith
- B.
Minnie Minoso
- C.
Roy Sievers
- D.
Ted Kluszewski
Correct Answer
A. Al SmithExplanation
Al Smith hit the first home run to set off the fireworks in Comiskey Park's scoreboard.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Who scored the only run in Harvey Haddox's "almost" perfect game?
- A.
Joe Adcock
- B.
Wes Covington
- C.
Felix Mantilla
- D.
Hank Aaron
Correct Answer
C. Felix MantillaExplanation
Felix Mantilla scored the only run in Harvey Haddox's "almost" perfect game.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Who did Tommy Byrne baffle with his special pitch, the "Kimono Ball"?
- A.
Pee Wee Reese
- B.
Mickey Mantle
- C.
Hank Aaron
- D.
Cookie Lavagatto
Correct Answer
A. Pee Wee ReeseExplanation
Tommy Byrne baffled Pee Wee Reese with his special pitch, the "Kimono Ball".Rate this question:
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- 19.
What player led a minor league and a Major League in home runs in the same season?
- A.
Count Campau
- B.
Okkie Roettger
- C.
King Kelly
- D.
Oom Paul Krueger
Correct Answer
A. Count CampauExplanation
Count Campau is the correct answer because he is the only player among the options given who led both a minor league and a Major League in home runs in the same season. The other players listed did not achieve this feat.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Who was the first African-American pitcher in the Major Leagues?
- A.
Hilton Smith
- B.
Bob Trice
- C.
Sam Jethroe
- D.
Dan Bankhead
Correct Answer
D. Dan BankheadExplanation
Dan Bankhead was the first African-American pitcher in the Major Leagues. He made his debut in 1947 with the Brooklyn Dodgers, just a few months after Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier. Bankhead's inclusion in the Major Leagues marked an important milestone in the integration of baseball. Although his career was short-lived, Bankhead's achievement paved the way for future African-American players in the sport.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Who was the first African American manager in organized baseball?
- A.
Dave Hoskins
- B.
Sam Bankhead
- C.
Larry Doby
- D.
Ray Dandridge
Correct Answer
B. Sam BankheadExplanation
Sam Bankhead was the first African American manager in organized baseball. He broke barriers by becoming a manager in the Negro leagues in the 1940s. Bankhead's achievement was significant as it symbolized progress and racial equality in the sport. His contribution paved the way for future African American managers and players in professional baseball.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Who did Joe Adcock pass on the bases to end Harvey Haddox' "almost perfect" game?
- A.
Eddie Matthews
- B.
Del Crandall
- C.
Hank Aaron
- D.
Felix Mantilla
Correct Answer
C. Hank AaronExplanation
Joe Adcock passed the bases to Hank Aaron to end Harvey Haddox' "almost perfect" game. This means that Adcock successfully advanced from one base to another, ultimately reaching home plate, with Aaron following behind him. This action ended Haddox' near-perfect game, as Adcock's successful advancement prevented Haddox from achieving a perfect game where no opposing player reaches base.Rate this question:
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- 23.
What city were Joe DiMaggio and Tug McGraw born in?
- A.
Lynwood, California
- B.
Lompoc, California
- C.
Wichita, Kansas
- D.
Martinez, California
Correct Answer
D. Martinez, CaliforniaExplanation
Joe DiMaggio and Tug McGraw were both born in Martinez, California.Rate this question:
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- 24.
What idea did National League President John Heydler propose in 1926?
- A.
Use Of Orange Baseballs
- B.
The Designated Hitter For Pitchers
- C.
Ladies Day At The Ballpark
- D.
All Player Become Free Agents At The End Of The Season
Correct Answer
B. The Designated Hitter For PitchersExplanation
In 1926, National League President John Heydler proposed the idea of the designated hitter for pitchers. This concept suggests that a player would be designated to bat in place of the pitcher, allowing the pitcher to focus solely on their pitching duties. This proposal aimed to enhance offensive performance in the game and potentially increase the excitement for fans. However, this idea was not implemented until many years later, in 1973, when the American League adopted the designated hitter rule.Rate this question:
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- 25.
What minor league team held "Noah Night"?
- A.
Charleston Wheelers
- B.
Hickory Crawdads
- C.
Chattanooga Lookouts
- D.
New Haven Ravens
Correct Answer
A. Charleston WheelersExplanation
The minor league team that held "Noah Night" was the Charleston Wheelers.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Which of these items took place in baseball on October 2, 1920?
- A.
Baseball's Last Triple-Header
- B.
A Player's Strike
- C.
A Fire At The Polo Grounds
- D.
Three Feet Of Snow At Fenway Park
Correct Answer
A. Baseball's Last Triple-HeaderExplanation
On October 2, 1920, Baseball's Last Triple-Header took place. This means that three baseball games were played consecutively on the same day. It is a significant event in baseball history as it marked the end of the era of scheduling triple-headers due to the physical toll it took on players.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Who was "Lil Rastus" in baseball history?
- A.
What Ty Cobb Called His Bat
- B.
Nickname Of Negro League Player Satchel Paige
- C.
Early Mascot Of The Detroit Tigers
- D.
Nickname Of Giant Manager John McGraw
Correct Answer
C. Early Mascot Of The Detroit TigersExplanation
"Lil Rastus" was the early mascot of the Detroit Tigers. Mascots are often used by sports teams to represent and bring luck to the team. In baseball history, many teams had mascots, and the Detroit Tigers had their own in the form of "Lil Rastus." Mascots are often seen as a symbol of team spirit and can help create a sense of unity among players and fans. Therefore, it is likely that "Lil Rastus" served as an early mascot for the Detroit Tigers, representing the team and bringing them luck during games.Rate this question:
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- 28.
What Major League franchise held "Musical Un-appreciation Night"?
- A.
Brooklyn Dodgers
- B.
Chicago Cubs
- C.
St. Louis Browns
- D.
Cleveland Indians
Correct Answer
A. Brooklyn DodgersExplanation
The Brooklyn Dodgers held "Musical Un-appreciation Night" as a promotional event. This event was likely a humorous take on the appreciation of music, where fans were encouraged to bring their own instruments and play them poorly. It was a way to engage fans and create a fun and light-hearted atmosphere at the game.Rate this question:
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- 29.
What Major Leaguer was known as "The Tabasco Kid"?
- A.
Larry Bowa
- B.
Norman Elberfeld
- C.
Brett Butler
- D.
Billy Sunday
Correct Answer
B. Norman ElberfeldExplanation
Norman Elberfeld was known as "The Tabasco Kid" in Major League Baseball. This nickname was given to him due to his fiery and aggressive playing style, similar to the hot and spicy Tabasco sauce. Elberfeld was known for his intense competitiveness and willingness to get into confrontations on the field, earning him this unique moniker.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Which player ended his career by going 0 for 35 in one season?
- A.
Hal Finney
- B.
Pete Falsey
- C.
Hal Luby
- D.
Taylor Shaffer
Correct Answer
A. Hal FinneyExplanation
Hal Finney is the correct answer because he ended his career by going 0 for 35 in one season. This means that he did not get a single hit in the 35 at-bats he had during that season. This poor performance may have led to his decision to retire from professional baseball.Rate this question:
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Quiz Review Timeline +
Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.
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Current Version
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Mar 12, 2024Quiz Edited by
ProProfs Editorial Team
Expert Reviewed by
Ryan Pratt -
Feb 02, 2015Quiz Created by
Alfredhook3
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