Bill Veeck was the majority owner and general manager of the Cleveland Indians. He was also a master of promotion and brought his skills to Major League Baseball. He was one of the first to add entertainment to baseball, and it sure worked. In 1948 Cleveland’s attendance grew to a record 2.6 million. Veeck held promotional events and giveaways at a pace never conceived of before. There were Ladies’ nights at which nylon stockings or orchids were given away. In response to a request from fan Joe Early, “why not a night to honor the common fans.” there was the Mr. Average Fan Night - Joe Early. Benefits were held to raise money for victims of disease or accidents. He created a nursery in order for mothers to attend games. His creative approach and initiative also benefited baseball. In 1947 he integrated the American League by signing Larry Doby In 1948, he signed 40-something-year-old pitcher Satchel Paige from the Negro Leagues. Old “Satch” surpassed all expectations by posting a 6-1 record to help the Indians win their first World Championship since 1920. Well known for his gimmicks, in 1951 he signed 3 ft 7 inch Eddie Gaedel to serve as a pinch hitter. It worked as Eddie was walked on 4 straight pitches. Following the game, the Commissioner outlawed such gimmicks. Promotional events are common in today’s stadiums, but it was Bill Veeck who showed them how to do it.
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