Sports Highlights: May 18, 1979
On May 17, 1979, the Philadelphia Phillies secured a 23-22 victory against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field. This game set several team records for both sides. Notable records included the most combined total bases in a game with 97, most home runs in a game totaling 11, and most runs scored by the Phillies in a single game with 23. The Cubs contributed 49 total bases, while the Phillies amassed 48.
The weather conditions at Wrigley Field favored the batters. In the first inning alone, the Phillies scored seven runs on seven hits and the Cubs answered back with six runs on seven hits. Mike Schmidt played a pivotal role, hitting his second home run in the top of the 10th to clinch the win for the Phillies. The match saw 50 hits, 26 of which belonged to the Cubs, including 11 home runs.
Dave Kingman excelled for the Cubs with three home runs. Bill Buckner, Steve Ontiveros, and Jerry Martin also contributed to the tally with homers. On the Phillies’ side, Bob Boone, Gary Maddox, and Randy Lerch delivered homers. This legendary game was often replayed on WGN-TV during the winter months of 1979-80.
Weather Records
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, notable weather records include:
- High temperature of 94 degrees in 1962
- Low temperature of 36 degrees in 2002
- Precipitation of 3.11 inches in 2020
Historical Milestones
In 1900, L. Frank Baum’s beloved book “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” was published. Baum wrote this classic while residing on Chicago’s West Side. His influence and legacy remain significant due to this timeless work.
Another landmark event took place on May 17, 2000, when “Sue,” the largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus rex specimen ever discovered, was unveiled at the Field Museum. Sue’s debut in the Stanley Field Hall marked a significant moment in the museum’s history.
For those interested in exploring more from Chicago’s rich history, the Vintage Chicago Tribune newsletter provides a regular dose of nostalgia.