Baseball Trivia Question and Answers
1.
Which Major League pitcher retired with 5,714 strikeouts in 5,387 innings?
Answer:
Nolan Ryan
Explanation:
Nolan Ryan retired with 5,714 strikeouts in 5,387 innings, making him one of the most dominant pitchers in Major League Baseball history. His ability to strike out batters at such a high rate over a long career solidified his place as one of the greatest pitchers of all time.
2.
Which baseball player is nicknamed "Big Hurt"?
Answer:
Frank Thomas
Explanation:
Frank Thomas is nicknamed "Big Hurt" due to his impressive power hitting ability and his knack for consistently delivering big hits that hurt the opposing team. Thomas was known for his strength and ability to hit home runs, which earned him the nickname "Big Hurt" among fans and teammates alike.
3.
Willie Mays is the godfather to which baseball star?
Answer:
Barry Bonds
Explanation:
Willie Mays is the godfather to Barry Bonds. This relationship between the two baseball stars is well-known in the baseball community, with Bonds often crediting Mays as a mentor and role model throughout his career. Bonds has spoken about the influence Mays has had on his playing style and approach to the game, making their godfather-godson connection a significant aspect of their personal and professional lives.
4.
Who was the first player to win five Cy Young Awards?
Answer:
Roger Clemens
Explanation:
Roger Clemens was the first player to win five Cy Young Awards due to his exceptional pitching skills and consistency throughout his career. Clemens was known for his dominant performances on the mound, which earned him multiple Cy Young Awards and solidified his place as one of the greatest pitchers in baseball history.
5.
How tall is Mark "Big Mac" McGwire?
Answer:
6 Foot 5 Inches
Explanation:
Mark "Big Mac" McGwire is known for his towering height of 6 feet 5 inches. This height is often mentioned in reference to his impressive stature and power as a professional baseball player. Standing at 6'5", McGwire was able to generate significant power in his swing, contributing to his success as a home run hitter during his career.
6.
Who was the first player to win the MVP in both the American and National Leagues?
Answer:
Frank Thomas
Explanation:
Frank Thomas was the first player to win the MVP in both the American and National Leagues. Thomas achieved this feat during his career by winning the American League MVP in 1993 and 1994 while playing for the Chicago White Sox, and then winning the National League MVP in 2000 as a member of the Atlanta Braves. His exceptional performance on the field and consistent success at the plate allowed him to become the first player to accomplish this rare achievement in both leagues.
7.
Who did famous baseball player Ty Cobb play for?
Answer:
Detroit Tigers
Explanation:
Ty Cobb played for the Detroit Tigers during his baseball career. He is considered one of the greatest baseball players of all time and spent the majority of his career with the Tigers, where he achieved numerous records and accolades. His time with the Detroit Tigers solidified his legacy as one of the most iconic figures in baseball history.
8.
Who said "I ain't never thrown an illegal pitch, it's just that some of the stuff I throw ain't never been seen by this generation"?
Answer:
Satchel Paige
Explanation:
Satchel Paige was known for his innovative pitching style and his ability to throw pitches that baffled batters. In this quote, he is asserting that while his pitches may seem unconventional or unfamiliar to some, they are not illegal. This statement reflects Paige's confidence in his unique abilities and his belief in his own skills as a pitcher.
9.
Which baseball player is known as "El Duque"?
Answer:
Orlando Hernandez
Explanation:
Orlando Hernandez is known as "El Duque" in the baseball world. This nickname was given to him due to his Cuban heritage and his impressive pitching skills, which have made him a standout player in the sport. His talent and success on the field have solidified his reputation as "El Duque" among fans and fellow players alike.
10.
Where was baseball's Mark McGwire born?
Answer:
Pomona, California
Explanation:
Mark McGwire was born in Pomona, California, which is a city located in Los Angeles County. This is where he spent his early years and began his journey to becoming a professional baseball player. Being born in Pomona, California, likely played a significant role in shaping his passion for the sport and ultimately led to his successful career in Major League Baseball.
11.
In the minor league organization of which Major League baseball team did Michael Jordan play?
Answer:
Chicago White Sox
Explanation:
Michael Jordan played in the minor league organization of the Chicago White Sox because he pursued a career in baseball after retiring from basketball. The Chicago White Sox provided him with the opportunity to play professional baseball and develop his skills in the sport. Jordan's time with the White Sox organization was a unique chapter in his athletic career, showcasing his versatility as an athlete.
12.
In 1998, Mark McGwire joined Willie Mays in holding which MLB record?
Answer:
4 Home Runs 1st 4 Games Of A Season
Explanation:
Mark McGwire joined Willie Mays in holding the MLB record for hitting 4 home runs in the first 4 games of a season in 1998. This achievement highlighted McGwire's exceptional power and consistency at the plate early in the season, putting him in elite company alongside the legendary Willie Mays.
13.
How many home runs did Mark McGwire hit in 1996?
Answer:
52
Explanation:
Mark McGwire hit 52 home runs in 1996. This was a significant achievement for him as it was the highest number of home runs hit by any player in the Major League Baseball that year. McGwire was known for his power hitting ability and his record-breaking performances, making him a standout player in the league during that time.
14.
Playing only 18 games his first year in the big leagues, Mark McGwire hit how many home runs that year?
Answer:
3
Explanation:
Mark McGwire hit 3 home runs in his first year in the big leagues despite playing only 18 games. This limited playing time may have impacted his overall performance and statistics for the season.
15.
Who once said, "You hit 1 of mine, I hit 2 of yours. You hit 2 of mine, I deck 4 of yours"?
Answer:
Don Drysdale
Explanation:
Don Drysdale was known for his aggressive pitching style and willingness to retaliate against opposing batters who he felt were targeting his teammates. This quote reflects his mentality of defending his teammates by escalating retaliation in response to perceived slights. It showcases his tough and competitive nature on the baseball field.
16.
Which baseball player had the most RBI's in the 1980's?
Answer:
Eddie Murray
Explanation:
Eddie Murray had the most RBI's in the 1980's due to his consistent performance as a power hitter throughout the decade. He played for the Baltimore Orioles and later the Los Angeles Dodgers, showcasing his ability to drive in runs with his strong hitting skills. Murray's impressive statistics and clutch performances made him a standout player in the 1980's, leading to him accumulating the most RBI's during that time period.
17.
In what city is the Little League World series played every August?
Answer:
South Williamsport, PA
Explanation:
The Little League World Series is played every August in South Williamsport, PA because it is the home of the Little League International headquarters and the location of the iconic Howard J. Lamade Stadium, where the games are held. The city has become synonymous with the tournament due to its long history of hosting the event and its significance in the world of youth baseball.
18.
Who was the youngest player ever to appear on the field in MLB's modern era?
Answer:
Joe Nuxhall
Explanation:
Joe Nuxhall holds the record for being the youngest player ever to appear on the field in MLB's modern era. He made his debut at the age of 15 years old, pitching for the Cincinnati Reds in 1944 due to player shortages during World War II. Nuxhall's early entry into the league was a unique and historical moment in baseball history.
19.
Who was the Yankees' first baseman before Lou Gehrig?
Answer:
Wally Pipp
Explanation:
Wally Pipp was the Yankees' first baseman before Lou Gehrig. Pipp was a standout player for the Yankees until he was famously replaced by Gehrig due to a headache, leading to Gehrig's legendary consecutive games played streak. Pipp's name is often associated with being replaced by a future Hall of Famer, highlighting the impact Gehrig had on the Yankees and baseball history.
20.
For which team did Mike Piazza never play during the 1998 season?
Answer:
Expos
Explanation:
Mike Piazza never played for the Expos during the 1998 season because he was traded from the Los Angeles Dodgers to the Florida Marlins in May 1998. He played for the Marlins for only a week before being traded to the New York Mets, where he finished the 1998 season.
21.
In what year and city was major-league baseball first played in a domed stadium?
Answer:
1965, Houston
Explanation:
In 1965, major-league baseball was first played in a domed stadium in Houston. The Astrodome, also known as the "Eighth Wonder of the World," revolutionized the game by providing a climate-controlled environment for players and fans, allowing games to be played regardless of weather conditions. This marked a significant milestone in the history of baseball stadiums and paved the way for future domed stadiums in the MLB.
22.
Which baseball star was once married to Marilyn Monroe?
Answer:
Joe DiMaggio
Explanation:
Joe DiMaggio was once married to Marilyn Monroe, making him a notable figure in both the baseball and entertainment worlds. Their high-profile relationship and subsequent marriage captured the attention of the public and solidified DiMaggio's status as a cultural icon beyond just his baseball career.
23.
Which baseball park has the "Green Monster"?
Answer:
Fenway Park
Explanation:
Fenway Park is known for having the "Green Monster," which is a famous 37-foot-tall left field wall that is painted green. It is one of the most iconic features of the ballpark and is a unique aspect of Fenway Park that sets it apart from other baseball stadiums.
24.
What was Big Mac's (Mark McGwire) fellow Bash Brother's name?
Answer:
Jose Canseco
Explanation:
Jose Canseco was Mark McGwire's fellow Bash Brother during their time playing for the Oakland Athletics. The duo was known for their power hitting abilities and played a significant role in the success of the team during the late 1980s. Canseco and McGwire were a formidable pair in the lineup, earning the nickname "Bash Brothers" for their ability to hit home runs with great frequency.
25.
Mark McGwire played college baseball at which one of these schools?
Answer:
USC
Explanation:
Mark McGwire played college baseball at USC because he attended the University of Southern California where he played for the USC Trojans baseball team. USC is known for its successful baseball program, making it a likely choice for a player of McGwire's caliber.
26.
How many career pinch-hit home runs did Mark McGwire have?
Answer:
6
Explanation:
Mark McGwire hit a total of 6 career pinch-hit home runs. This statistic demonstrates his ability to come off the bench and make a significant impact on the game in crucial moments. It also highlights his power and skill as a hitter, even when not starting in the lineup.
27.
For what position was Mark McGwire recruited in college?
Answer:
Pitcher
Explanation:
Mark McGwire was recruited as a pitcher in college because of his strong throwing arm and pitching abilities. As a pitcher, he would have been responsible for throwing strikes, getting batters out, and helping his team win games. This position likely suited his skills and strengths, leading to his recruitment as a pitcher in college.
28.
At the end of the 1998 season Mark McGwire's career home run total was what?
Answer:
457
Explanation:
Mark McGwire's career home run total at the end of the 1998 season was 457, indicating that he hit a total of 457 home runs throughout his career up to that point.
29.
How many total home runs did Mark McGwire hit in the 1998 season?
Answer:
70
Explanation:
Mark McGwire hit a record-breaking 70 home runs in the 1998 season, breaking the previous record of 61 set by Roger Maris in 1961. This achievement was a major milestone in baseball history and solidified McGwire's place as one of the greatest power hitters of all time.
30.
Which manager coached Mark McGwire on two different teams?
Answer:
Tony La Russa
Explanation:
Tony La Russa coached Mark McGwire on two different teams, the Oakland Athletics and the St. Louis Cardinals. La Russa was the manager for both teams during McGwire's career, which allowed him to coach McGwire on multiple occasions.
31.
In what state did MLB's Kansas City Royals play their first game?
Answer:
Missouri
Explanation:
The Kansas City Royals played their first game in the state of Missouri because the team is based in Kansas City, which is located in Missouri. Kansas City has been the home of the Royals since the team was established, making Missouri the logical state for the team to play their inaugural game.
32.
Which baseball team did catcher Joe Girardi begin his Major League career with?
Answer:
Cubs
Explanation:
Joe Girardi began his Major League career with the Cubs. This team was where he made his debut as a catcher in the MLB. Girardi went on to have a successful career with the Cubs before eventually playing for other teams and later transitioning into a managerial role in the league.
33.
What team was Mark McGwire playing against when he broke the home run record?
Answer:
Cubs
Explanation:
Mark McGwire broke the home run record while playing against the Chicago Cubs. This game took place on September 8, 1998, when McGwire hit his record-breaking 62nd home run of the season, surpassing the previous record held by Roger Maris. The Cubs were the opposing team on this historic day in baseball history.
34.
Who was Rookie of the Year in 1982?
Answer:
Steve Sax
Explanation:
Steve Sax was named Rookie of the Year in 1982 for his outstanding performance during his first season in Major League Baseball. He had a stellar season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, showcasing his talent and earning the prestigious award for his contributions to the team. Sax's impressive debut season solidified his reputation as a rising star in the league.
35.
What was 60's and 70's era baseball player Walt Williams' nickname?
Answer:
No-Neck
Explanation:
Walt Williams was known for his distinctive appearance of having a very short neck, which led to his nickname "No-Neck". This nickname became popular among fans and teammates during his time as a baseball player in the 60's and 70's, highlighting his unique physical trait.
36.
How many home runs did Mickey Mantle and Roger Maris combine for in 1961?
Answer:
115
Explanation:
Mickey Mantle and Roger Maris combined for 115 home runs in 1961, setting a record for the most home runs hit by a pair of teammates in a single season. Mantle hit 54 home runs, while Maris hit 61 home runs, breaking Babe Ruth's single-season home run record. Their incredible power at the plate helped lead the New York Yankees to a successful season.
37.
What team did baseball great Willie Mays finish his career with?
Answer:
Mets
Explanation:
Willie Mays finished his career with the New York Mets, playing his final season with the team in 1973. After spending the majority of his career with the New York/San Francisco Giants, Mays returned to New York to finish out his playing days with the Mets before retiring.
38.
Who was the first pitcher to toss consecutive game no hitters?
Answer:
Johnny Vandemeer
Explanation:
Johnny Vandemeer was the first pitcher to toss consecutive game no hitters in Major League Baseball history. He achieved this remarkable feat in 1938 while playing for the Cincinnati Reds. Vandemeer's back-to-back no hitters against the Boston Bees and Brooklyn Dodgers solidified his place in baseball history as one of the most dominant pitchers of his time. His incredible accomplishment has yet to be matched by any other pitcher in the MLB.
39.
When Roger Maris hit sixty-one home runs in 1961, how many times was he intentionally walked?
Answer:
Explanation:
Roger Maris was intentionally walked only once during his record-breaking 1961 season when he hit sixty-one home runs. This shows that pitchers were not intentionally walking him frequently, allowing him the opportunity to hit home runs and break Babe Ruth's single-season record.
40.
Who or what was "Louisiana Lightning"?
Answer:
Ron Guidry
Explanation:
Ron Guidry was nicknamed "Louisiana Lightning" due to his impressive pitching skills and lightning-fast fastball during his career as a professional baseball player. He played as a pitcher for the New York Yankees and was known for his dominant performances on the field, earning him the nickname that highlighted his speed and power on the mound.
41.
How many home runs did Sammy Sosa hit in 1998?
Answer:
66
Explanation:
Sammy Sosa hit a total of 66 home runs in 1998, which was a record-breaking achievement in Major League Baseball at that time. This incredible feat solidified his place as one of the greatest power hitters in the history of the sport.
42.
What was Mickey Mantle's career batting average?
Answer:
.298
Explanation:
Mickey Mantle's career batting average was .298, indicating that he successfully hit the ball nearly 30% of the time throughout his career in Major League Baseball. This statistic demonstrates Mantle's skill and consistency as a hitter, solidifying his reputation as one of the greatest baseball players in history.
43.
What is baseball player Chipper Jones' real first name?
Answer:
Larry
Explanation:
Chipper Jones' real first name is Larry because that is the name he was given at birth. Despite being known by his nickname "Chipper" throughout his baseball career, his legal first name is Larry.
44.
What manager went 26 years managing in the majors without ever winning a league pennant?
Answer:
Gene Mauch
Explanation:
Gene Mauch managed in the majors for 26 years without ever winning a league pennant. Despite his longevity and success as a manager, Mauch was never able to lead his team to a league championship. This fact highlights the challenges and competitive nature of Major League Baseball, where even experienced and skilled managers like Mauch can struggle to achieve the ultimate goal of winning a pennant.
45.
In baseball, which team was known as the "Hitless Wonders"?
Answer:
1906 Chicago White Sox
Explanation:
The 1906 Chicago White Sox earned the nickname "Hitless Wonders" because they had a reputation for not hitting well during the regular season, yet still managed to win the American League pennant and the World Series. Despite their struggles at the plate, the team's strong pitching and defense carried them to victory, making them an unexpected and memorable underdog in baseball history.
46.
Bill Mazeroski hit his series-ending home run off of which pitcher?
Answer:
Ralph Terry
Explanation:
Bill Mazeroski hit his series-ending home run off of Ralph Terry during Game 7 of the 1960 World Series. Mazeroski's walk-off home run in the bottom of the ninth inning secured the Pittsburgh Pirates' victory over the New York Yankees, making it one of the most iconic moments in baseball history.
47.
What famous baseball player made the statement "It ain't over till it's over"?
Answer:
Yogi Berra
Explanation:
Yogi Berra, a famous baseball player known for his wit and wisdom, is credited with the statement "It ain't over till it's over." This quote has become a popular phrase used in various contexts to emphasize the importance of perseverance and not giving up until the very end. Berra's reputation for making clever and memorable remarks has solidified his place in baseball history and popular culture.
48.
In it's inaugural season (1901) who led the AL in wins, era, strikeouts and shutouts?
Answer:
Cy Young
Explanation:
Cy Young led the American League in wins, ERA, strikeouts, and shutouts during its inaugural season in 1901. Young was known for his dominant pitching performances and consistency throughout his career, which ultimately led to the creation of the prestigious Cy Young Award given to the best pitcher in each league every year.
49.
Who was the first manager to capture pennants in both leagues?
Answer:
Joe McCarthy
Explanation:
Joe McCarthy was the first manager to capture pennants in both leagues because he achieved this feat by leading the Chicago Cubs to the National League pennant in 1929 and the New York Yankees to the American League pennant in 1932. McCarthy's success in both leagues solidified his reputation as one of the greatest managers in baseball history.
50.
In what year did Fenway Park open?
Answer:
1912
Explanation:
Fenway Park opened in 1912, making it one of the oldest baseball stadiums in the United States. This historic ballpark has been home to the Boston Red Sox for over a century and is known for its iconic features such as the Green Monster and Pesky's Pole. The year 1912 marked the beginning of a long-standing tradition of baseball at Fenway Park.
51.
Which one of these nicknames was applied to George Herman "Babe" Ruth, Jr.?
Answer:
The Sultan Of Swat
Explanation:
Babe Ruth was given the nickname "The Sultan of Swat" due to his incredible hitting power and ability to hit home runs. This nickname highlighted his dominance at the plate and solidified his legacy as one of the greatest baseball players of all time.
52.
What was the nickname of baseball players Bill Killefer and Charlie Maxwell?
Answer:
Paw Paw
Explanation:
Bill Killefer and Charlie Maxwell were both known by the nickname "Paw Paw." This nickname was likely given to them due to their shared last name, as well as possibly their playing style or personality traits. Nicknames are common in sports and can help distinguish players with similar names or create a sense of camaraderie among teammates.
53.
Who was the only baseball Hall of Famer to hit a home run off a Babe Ruth pitch?
Answer:
Sam Rice
Explanation:
Sam Rice is the only baseball Hall of Famer to hit a home run off a Babe Ruth pitch. This unique achievement is a testament to Rice's skill and talent as a baseball player. It highlights his ability to compete against some of the greatest pitchers in baseball history, including the legendary Babe Ruth.
54.
Who was known as the "Babe Ruth of the Negro Leagues"?
Answer:
Josh Gibson
Explanation:
Josh Gibson was known as the "Babe Ruth of the Negro Leagues" due to his exceptional talent and impressive statistics in baseball, similar to Babe Ruth in the Major Leagues. Gibson was a prolific hitter with incredible power, often hitting towering home runs that drew comparisons to Ruth. His impact on the Negro Leagues and the sport of baseball as a whole solidified his legacy as one of the greatest players of his time.
55.
What player wears a necklace made of teeth during games?
Answer:
Turk Wendell
Explanation:
Turk Wendell was known for wearing a necklace made of teeth during games as part of his superstitions and quirky behavior on the field. This unique accessory became a signature look for Wendell and added to his eccentric personality as a professional baseball player.
56.
In baseball slang, what is a "pickle"?
Answer:
Player In A Rundown Between Bases
Explanation:
In baseball slang, a "pickle" refers to a player who is caught in a rundown between bases. This term is commonly used to describe a situation where a player is trapped between two bases and must try to evade being tagged out by the opposing team. It is a high-pressure situation that requires quick thinking and agility to escape successfully.
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