today in 1951

today in 1951, in the bottom of the first inning between the St. Louis Browns and Detroit Tigers, 3'7" Eddie Gaedel makes his only plate appearance pinch hitting for Frank Saucier.  Bill Veeck had found him at booking agency and wanted to used him for a publicity stunt.  him and manager Zach Taylor had a copy of Gaedel's contract on hand.  the contract had been filed late on the 17th and it would not be looked at until the 20th (now a contract has to be approved by the Commisioners' office).  Gaedel was walked on 4 pitches - all high.  pitcher Bob Cain was almost laughing on the mound and Bob Swift was catching.  Gaedel was replaced by pinch runner Jim Delsing.