This Date in Washington Senators History – Sunday baseball is legalized in the District of Columbia

May 14

1913 – A new major league record is set in St. Louis as Walter Johnson breaks Jack Coombs record of 53 consecutive scoreless innings. The Browns will push a run across in the 4th to snap the streak at 55.2 innings, but the Sens still prevail 10-5.

1914 – In Washington, Chicago’s Jim Scott no hits the Senators for 9 innings, but Chicago is unable to score in regulation. In the bottom of the 10th, future “Black Sock” Chick Gandil collects the Sens first hit and scores the winning run on Howie Shanks single as the Sens defeat the White Sox 1-0. With the victory, the Senators will begin a season best 7 game winning streak.

1918 – Due to increased population caused by WWI and the need for recreation activities, Sunday baseball is legalized in the District of Columbia. Five days later, the Sens beat Cleveland in the first legal Sunday game 1-0.

1920 – It’s career victory number 300 for the Big Train as the Nats topple Detroit 9-8 at Griffith.

1961 – After recording their first ever shutout yesterday, the expansion Senators complete their first ever doubleheader sweep. Joe McClain and Bernie Daniels are the winning pitchers in the twin bill as the Sens sweep the Red Sox 3-0 and 2-1.

1964 – The Orioles are unable to solve former teammate Buster Narum, who throws a complete game 4 hitter in a 4-1 Senators win at RFK. Nats 3B Don Zimmer provides all the offense with a 2nd inning grand slam off eventuAl Hall of Famer Robin Roberts.

Senators Birthdays

Doc Burrell Land B May 14, 1903 D Apr. 14, 1986

Another “One Game Wonder” for the Senators, Doc Land appeared in 1 game as an outfielder in 1906, playing centerfield and batting 0-3 with 1 walk.

Doc Land career record

Anthony (Tony) Smith B May 14, 1884 D Feb. 27, 1964

Tony Smith‘s career began with the 1907 Senators where he played 51 games as a shortstop. His weak hitting (BA .187) was most likely the reason he did not return to Washington in 1908.
In 1910 & 1911, he was on the roster of the Brooklyn National League team. In 1910 they were known as the “Superbas” with the team name changing to “Dodgers” for the 1911 season. Regardless of team name, Tony’s hitting didn’t improve much and he departed the majors after 13 games in 1911.

Tony Smith career record