THIS DAY IN BASEBALL

APRIL 6

1972: For the first time in history, the major leagues failed to open on schedule because of a player strike, which started on April 1. The traditional season opener between Houston and Cincinnati was canceled and a total of 86 games were lost before the strike was settled.

1973: Ron Blomberg of the New York Yankees became the first major-league designated hitter. With the bases loaded in the first inning, he was walked by pitcher Luis Tiant, but the Red Sox won 15-5.

1974: Due to renovations at Yankee Stadium, the New York Yankees’ home opener took place at Shea Stadium.

1977: The Seattle Mariners played their first regular-season game and lost 7-0 to the California Angels at the Kingdome.

1982: A freak storm that brought subfreezing temperatures and dumped heavy snow from the Northeast to the Midwest forced the postponement of American League openers in New York, Detroit, Chicago, Cleveland and Milwaukee, and National League openers in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.

2005: Brad Wilkerson hit for the cycle to lead Washington over Philadelphia 7-3.