RetroSeasons recaps past sports seasons through stories, photos, videos, and stats from every team, league, and stadium in history. Coverage includes the NBA, NFL, MLB and NHL, as well as vintage media from defunct teams and leagues.
The name "Indians" originated from a request by club owner Charles Somers to baseball writers to choose a new name to replace "Cleveland Naps" following the departure of Nap Lajoie after the 1914 season. It was a revival of the nickname that fans gave to the Cleveland Spiders while Louis Sockalexis, a Native American, was playing for the team. Common nicknames for the Indians include the "Tribe" and the "Wahoos", the latter referencing their former logo, Chief Wahoo. The team's mascot is named "Slider."
The franchise originated in 1894 as the Grand Rapids Rustlers, a minor league team in the Western League. The team relocated to Cleveland in 1900 and was renamed the Cleveland Lake Shores. The Western League itself was renamed the American League while continuing its minor league status. One of the American League's eight charter franchises, the major league incarnation of the club was founded in Cleveland in 1901. Originally called the Cleveland Bluebirds, the team played in League Park until moving permanently to Cleveland Stadium in 1946. From August 24 to September 14, 2017, the Indians won 22 consecutive games, the longest winning streak in American League history.
Dick Cavett welcomes former American baseball pitcher Bob Feller to the show who brings his first professional contract and discusses starting out in his sporting career.
MLB Network documentary from 2017 on the powerhouse Cleveland Indians teams from 1995-2001: winners of...
MLB The Dynasty That Almost Was (1990's Indians) / MLB Network documentary from 2017 on the powerhouse Cleveland Indians teams from 1995-2001: winners of 6 AL Central titles, 2 AL Pennants, but no World Series titles.
On Sunday, September 2, 1990, the Toronto Blue Jays faced off against the Cleveland Indians...
Toronto Blue Jays vs Cleveland Indians - Stieb No Hitter - Radio Broadcast / On Sunday, September 2, 1990, the Toronto Blue Jays faced off against the Cleveland Indians at Cleveland Stadium. The Blue Jays sent out their ace, Dave Stieb, who entered the game with a remarkable 16-5 record. The Indians countered with Bud Black, who was having a solid season with a 10-8 record. At this point in the season, the Blue Jays were in a tight race in the AL East, while the Indians were struggling to stay out of the basement in the AL Central. The 1990 season was marked by a number of standout performances, including the rise of young stars like Ken Griffey Jr. and the continued dominance of established players like Rickey Henderson.
The game started as a pitching duel, with both Stieb and Black keeping the opposing offenses at bay through the first three innings. The Blue Jays broke the silence in the fourth inning, when first baseman Fred McGriff hit a solo home run off Black. Toronto added another run in the fifth inning, with a double from center fielder Kenny Williams and another double from second baseman Manuel Lee. Despite these runs, the game remained a pitchers' duel, as Stieb kept the Indians' offense completely in check.
Meanwhile, the Indians struggled to mount any offense against Stieb. Despite drawing four walks, the team was unable to capitalize on these opportunities. The Blue Jays, on the other hand, were able to add an insurance run in the ninth inning, courtesy of another solo home run from McGriff. This provided a comfortable cushion for Stieb, who completed the game without allowing a single hit to the Indians.
The game ended in a 3-0 victory for the Blue Jays, with Stieb throwing a no-hitter and improving his record to an impressive 17-5. McGriff's two home runs were key to the victory, providing all the offense the Blue Jays needed. The win helped the Blue Jays in their pursuit of the AL East title, although they would eventually finish in second place behind the Boston Red Sox. The Indians, meanwhile, continued their struggles and finished the season in the last place in the AL Central. The 1990 season was memorable for a number of reasons, including Nolan Ryan's 300th win and the Cincinnati Reds' wire-to-wire World Series victory, but this game stood out as a highlight, showcasing the dominance of Dave Stieb and the power of Fred McGriff.
For the Cleveland Indians, the 1978 season was challenging. They struggled to find consistency in...
Cleveland Indians vs Toronto Blue Jays - Radio Broadcast / For the Cleveland Indians, the 1978 season was challenging. They struggled to find consistency in their gameplay, facing difficulties both offensively and defensively. In August, their weaknesses became more apparent, as they struggled to secure crucial victories and make significant progress in the standings. While they had some individual standout performances from players like Andre Thornton, their collective efforts fell short, preventing them from making a strong push for the playoffs.
On the other hand, the Toronto Blue Jays had a more promising season in 1978. In August, they displayed flashes of potential, with players like Dave Stieb showcasing their talent and contributing to the team's success. Their pitching staff performed admirably, holding opponents in check and providing a solid foundation for the team's victories. Although the Blue Jays were not yet a playoff contender, their progress and growing competitive spirit were evident throughout August.
Rangers second baseman Lenny Randle lays down a bunt so he can intentionally attack Indians...
Lenny Randle Fight - Rangers vs Indians / Rangers second baseman Lenny Randle lays down a bunt so he can intentionally attack Indians pitcher Bob Johnson after he threw behind Randle one pitch earlier
Dick Cavett is playing base ball with Vida Blue. When Bob Feller arrives, he throws...
Dick Cavett's Fastball Challenge with Vida Blue and Bob Feller / Dick Cavett is playing base ball with Vida Blue. When Bob Feller arrives, he throws the ball at Dick, but Dick catches them all and is given a surprise.
In this 1966 audio clip, Bob Feller, one of Major League Baseball's most revered pitchers, discusses...
Bob Feller on No Hitters - Radio Show / In this 1966 audio clip, Bob Feller, one of Major League Baseball's most revered pitchers, discusses the rare and remarkable feat of throwing no-hitters. By this time, Feller had retired from an illustrious career primarily with the Cleveland Indians, where he was renowned for his fast pitches and formidable presence on the mound. Having thrown three no-hitters himself, Feller speaks from experience, offering insights and anecdotes about these exceptional performances. The year 1966 finds him reflecting on past glories and the elements that align to make a no-hitter possible, providing listeners with a deeper understanding of one of baseball's most challenging achievements.
The significance of this interview lies not only in Feller's firsthand experience but also in the timing. The mid-1960s were a period of transition in baseball, with new stars emerging and the game itself undergoing changes in culture and strategy. Feller's perspective bridges the eras, connecting the golden age of baseball with the evolving landscape of the sport in the 1960s. This clip offers not just historical insight but also a personal recounting from one of the game's legends, making it a compelling listen for baseball fans, historians, and those interested in the personal challenges and triumphs of sports figures.
On Saturday, October 3, 1964, the New York Yankees hosted the Cleveland Indians at Yankee...
Cleveland Indians vs New York Yankees - Clinch - Radio Broadcast / On Saturday, October 3, 1964, the New York Yankees hosted the Cleveland Indians at Yankee Stadium in a day game that was a part of the final stretch of the regular season. The Yankees started the game with Al Downing on the mound, a left-handed pitcher who had been a key part of their rotation throughout the season. The Indians countered with Lee Stange, a right-hander who was looking to improve on a challenging season, as reflected in his 7-14 record. At this point in the season, the Yankees were in a tight race for the American League pennant, while the Indians were playing for pride, well out of contention for the postseason. The baseball world was abuzz with the tight pennant races, especially in the National League where the Philadelphia Phillies, St. Louis Cardinals, and Cincinnati Reds were locked in a fierce battle.
The game started with the Yankees taking an early lead, scoring two runs in the first inning thanks to a Mickey Mantle double that drove in Phil Linz and Bobby Richardson. The Indians managed to score a run in the top of the third on a single by Chico Salmon, but the Yankees responded in the bottom of the inning with a run of their own, extending their lead to 3-1. The Indians showed signs of a comeback in the sixth inning, scoring two runs to tighten the game at 3-3. However, the Yankees' offense proved too strong, exploding for five runs in the eighth inning to secure a commanding lead. Key contributions in this inning came from Mantle and Elston Howard, who both drew walks and later scored, while Joe Pepitone and Clete Boyer added crucial hits.
The final score was 8-3 in favor of the Yankees, a victory that played a significant role in their successful chase for the American League pennant. The 1964 season was a memorable one for the Yankees, as they won the AL pennant but eventually lost to the St. Louis Cardinals in a thrilling seven-game World Series. Mickey Mantle, despite battling injuries, had a solid season, and the Yankees' roster was dotted with All-Stars, including Howard, who won the American League's Most Valuable Player award.
1963 marked the first time in 5 years that only one game was played at...
1963 MLB All-Star Game - Radio Broadcast / 1963 marked the first time in 5 years that only one game was played at the midseason break. The game took place at Cleveland Stadium in front of only 44,000 in a ballpark that could hold twice as many. It didn't help that the Indians entered the break in 6th place, and their only representative on the all-star team was "Mudcat" Grant , who didn't even see any action. The game was notable however in that Stan Musial made his 24th and final appearance in the all-star game. And youngster Carl Yastrzemski would make his 1st of 18 future appearances.
In the midst of the 1961 baseball season, the New York Yankees faced off against...
Cleveland Indians vs New York Yankees - Game 1 of DH - Radio Broadcast / In the midst of the 1961 baseball season, the New York Yankees faced off against the Cleveland Indians at Yankee Stadium on Sunday, September 10. The Yankees were in the midst of their legendary season, with Mickey Mantle and Roger Maris, known as the M&M Boys, chasing Babe Ruth's single-season home run record. Meanwhile, the Indians were a solid team trying to stay competitive in the American League. The starting pitchers were Whitey Ford for the Yankees and Barry Latman for the Indians. Ford was having a strong season, but this game would prove to be a challenge for him. Latman, on the other hand, was looking to hold back the powerful Yankee lineup.
The game started off with a bang as the Indians put up two runs in the first inning, with Johnny Romano and Willie Kirkland driving in runs. The Yankees, however, answered back in the second inning, plating six runs. The big blow was a two-run homer by Johnny Blanchard, and Whitey Ford himself drove in a run with a single. The Indians fought back in the third inning, scoring four runs, highlighted by a three-run homer from Vic Power. The Yankees' relief pitcher, Jim Coates, then came in and settled things down, holding the Indians to just one run over the next six innings.
In the eighth inning, the Yankees managed to push across the go-ahead run, thanks to a pinch-hit single from Bob Cerv. Luis Arroyo then came in to close out the game in the ninth, securing a 7-6 victory for the Yankees. It was a hard-fought game, with both teams showing their offensive prowess.
The 1961 season is remembered as one of the most exciting in baseball history, largely due to the home run chase between Mantle and Maris. Ultimately, Maris would break Ruth's record, hitting 61 homers, while Mantle would finish with 54. The Yankees would go on to win the World Series, defeating the Cincinnati Reds in five games. The Indians, meanwhile, would finish the season in fifth place in the American League. Despite their loss in this particular game, they showed their ability to compete with the best, contributing to the memorable narrative of the 1961 season.
Rocky Colavito finished his career with 374 HR's and he played in 9 All-Star Games. Now 90 years young,
Rocky Colavito (Indians HOF) Interview / Rocky Colavito finished his career with 374 HR's and he played in 9 All-Star Games. Now 90 years young, Rocky joins me on this episode to talk about his 1st game at the Polo Grounds, his tryout at Yankee Stadium, his love for Cleveland & the wedding gift the team gave he & his wife that he'll never forget!
In this 1966 audio clip, baseball legend Bob Feller revisits one of the most significant...
Bob Feller on 1940 Opening Day - Radio Show / In this 1966 audio clip, baseball legend Bob Feller revisits one of the most significant moments in his career and in Major League Baseball history: his no-hitter on Opening Day, 1940. At the time of this broadcast, Feller had retired from playing but remained a towering figure in the sport, revered for his fast pitching and competitive spirit. Reflecting on an event that occurred 26 years earlier, Feller offers insights and memories from the game, providing listeners with a direct link to a different era of baseball. His Opening Day no-hitter remains one of the sport’s most celebrated achievements, not just for its rarity but also for being the first and only no-hitter thrown on Opening Day in MLB history. Feller's recounting of that day brings to life the tension, excitement, and ultimate triumph of one of baseball’s most memorable moments.
This clip serves as a bridge between generations, connecting fans of all ages to a pivotal point in baseball's rich history. As Feller walks through the events of that day, listeners gain not only a better understanding of his mindset and the game itself but also of the cultural and sporting context of the time. The year 1966 marked a period of transition and growth in baseball, making Feller's reflections an invaluable resource for understanding the evolution of the game. His detailed account sheds light on his approach to pitching, his feelings about the game, and the atmosphere of the sport during an era that set the stage for the modern game.
The third annual Major League Baseball All-Star Game was played in July 1935 at Cleveland...
1935 MLB All-Star Game - Radio Broadcast / The third annual Major League Baseball All-Star Game was played in July 1935 at Cleveland Stadium. Nearly 70,000 fans filled the enormous ballpark, which had just opened a few years earlier. The game was a showcase for the new stadium, which was nearly 4 times the capacity of Cleveland's previous League Park. Babe Ruth didn't play in this game, having retired mid season just a month earlier. But, hall of famer Lefty Gomez made his third consecutive all-star game start as pitcher for the American League. He was joined by other stars such as Lou Gehrig, Jimmie Foxx, Charlie Genhringer, Al Simmons, and Mel Ott.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with Baseball Pitcher Denny Galehouse / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with Baseball Player Billy Sullivan Jr. / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with Baseball Catcher George Susce / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with Baseball Player Milt Shoffner / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with Outfielder Nick Cullop / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with Baseball Outfielder Johnny Gill / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with Baseball Player Riggs Stephenson / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Speech by 1929 AL Batting Champion Lew Fonseca / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with Catcher Luke Sewell / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with Hall of Fame Infielder Joe Sewell / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with Outfielder Bibb Falk / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with Baseball Player Louis Guisto / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with Hall of Fame Pitcher Stan Coveleski / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with Outfielder Elmer Smith / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with Baseball Player Smoky Joe Wood / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.