It was on this day in 1974 that Frank Robinson was hired to manage the Cleveland Indians, making him the first black manager in Major League Baseball history.

Robinson played for the California Angels during the first half of the 1974 season, but after managing in the winter leagues during the early 70′s, he began campaigning for a job as an MLB manager in an attempt to become the league’s first black manager.  One of the teams he had his sights set on was the Cleveland Indians, and he was eventually traded to them midway through the season. Once the season was over, he was named the Indians’ player-manager, giving him the distinction of being the MLB’s first black manager.

Interestingly enough, Frank Robinson homered in his first at bat as a player-manager the following season.  He would go on to manage the San Francisco Giants, Baltimore Orioles, Montreal Expos and Washington Nationals as well, compiling a 1065–1176 career record.

Here is a look at how Frank Robinson became a Major League legend.

Notable Birthdays

Henrik Zetterberg, NHL – Born on October 9, 1980 (age 32) in Njurunda, Sweden

Brian Roberts, MLB – Born on October 9, 1977 (age 35) in Durham, North Carolina

Mike Singletary, NFL – Born on October 9, 1959 (age 53) in Houston, Texas