Sports History
Babe Pratt - Hockey HOF Champion DefensemanFrom Stony Mountain to the Hockey Hall of Fame
Pratt's career began in the rough-and-tumble world of senior leagues, where his versatility shone. He could seamlessly switch between defense and left wing, a rare skill that caught the eye of the New York Rangers in 1935. He quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with, known for his booming slap shot and bone-crushing checks.
His impact was immediate. Pratt was instrumental in the Rangers' 1940 Stanley Cup victory, solidifying his reputation as a clutch performer. He later joined the Toronto Maple Leafs and was a key player in their 1945 championship run. His leadership and defensive prowess earned him the coveted Hart Memorial Trophy in 1944, a mark of individual excellence rarely achieved by defensemen.
However, Pratt's career wasn't without controversy. In 1946, he was suspended for betting on hockey games, a scandal that threatened to derail his legacy. His heartfelt apology and a promise to quit gambling led to his reinstatement, and he finished his career with the Boston Bruins, showcasing his unwavering passion for the game.
Beyond trophies and statistics, Babe Pratt's legacy lies in his influence on the game itself. He pioneered the two-way defenseman, excelling both offensively and defensively. His booming slapshot inspired a generation of blueliners to unleash their offensive power.
May 3 Numbers
Sports history is made every day of the year. We will preserve at least a small sampling from some great athletes every day based on the uniform number they wore. 9 - 5 - 12 - 21 - 44 - 6 - 8 - 16 - 23 May 3, 1936 - A big event in New York Yankee history occurred. Number 9, Joe DiMaggio ...
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May 2 Numbers
Sports history is made every day of the year. We will preserve at least a small sampling from some great athletes every day based on the uniform number they wore. 4 May 2, 1876 - Second baseman for the Chicago White Stockings, Ross Barnes hit the first home run in National League history...
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May 1 Numbers
Sports history is made every day of the year. We will preserve at least a small sampling from some great athletes every day based on the uniform number they wore. 3 - 23 - 1 - 4 May 1, 1884 - The Toledo Blue Stockings made history by signing catcher Moses Fleetwood Walker. It doesn't...
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April 30 Numbers
Sports history is made every day of the year. We will preserve at least a small sampling from some great athletes every day based on the uniform number they wore. 4 - 17 - 6 - 22 - 33 - 1 April 30, 1922 - Chicago White Sox pitcher Charlie Robertson, threw a perfect game as the...
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April 29 Numbers
Sports history is made every day of the year. We will preserve at least a small sampling from some great athletes every day based on the uniform number they wore. 14 - 9 April 29, 1892 - Charlie Reilly of the Philadelphia Phillies becomes Major League Baseball's first pinch hitt...
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April 28 Numbers
Sports history is made every day of the year. We will preserve at least a small sampling from some great athletes every day based on the uniform number they wore. 20 - 21 - 1 April 28, 1901 - Cleveland Blue's pitcher Bock Baker had a really bad day on the mound. The left hander gave&...
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