April 14

Addie Joss (1880–1911) was one of baseball’s most dominant pitchers during the dead-ball era. Playing his entire major league career with the Cleveland Naps, he achieved a career ERA of 1.89 and threw a perfect game in 1908. Joss combined athletic excellence with sharp intellect, writing columns on baseball strategy and game analysis. His life was cut short by tubercular meningitis at the age of 31, shocking fans and players alike. In recognition of his outstanding career and character, he was posthumously inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1978.

Born in Stockholm in 1893, Grafström dominated men's figure skating in the early 20th century. He won Olympic gold medals in 1920, 1924, and 1928, and secured multiple world titles. Grafström pioneered innovative skating techniques and set new artistic standards on the ice. Off the rink, he trained as an architect and contributed designs to Swedish projects. His dual legacy in sports and design reflects a rare combination of athleticism and creativity. He remains celebrated as one of the greatest figure skaters in history.

Born in Fostoria, Ohio in 1911, Al Benton made his MLB debut with the Cleveland Indians in 1934. He spent the majority of his career with the Detroit Tigers and Chicago White Sox, earning two All-Star selections. Over his 18-year career, he recorded over 100 wins and became known for his consistent pitching and durability. Benton's versatility on the mound contributed to his teams' successes during the 1930s and 1940s. He retired in 1952 and was remembered as one of the era's steady performers.

Born in Los Angeles in 1915, Joe Gordon debuted with the New York Yankees in 1938 and quickly established himself as a premier second baseman. He earned All-Star honors five times and was named the American League MVP in 1942. Gordon helped the Yankees win three World Series titles before serving in World War II. After the war, he returned to play for the Cleveland Indians and concluded his playing career in 1950. In 1961, he managed the Kansas City Athletics, demonstrating leadership off the field. Gordon is remembered for his disciplined play and lasting influence on the game.

Born in 1918, Wilf Mannion joined Middlesbrough’s youth academy and made his senior debut in the mid-1930s. Nicknamed “The Golden Boy,” he became known for his creative playmaking and powerful shot. Mannion earned 26 caps for England between 1946 and 1951, scoring 23 goals for his country. His career was interrupted by World War II, during which he served in the Royal Air Force. He retired from professional football in the mid-1950s and remained a club legend at Middlesbrough. Mannion died in 2000 at the age of 81, celebrated for his lasting impact on English football.

Jim Baxter was born in 1939 and began his professional career with Raith Rovers before moving to Rangers. Known as “Slim Jim,” he dazzled fans with his ball control, vision, and confidence on the pitch. Baxter earned 34 caps for Scotland, famously maintaining possession to secure a 3–2 victory over England at Wembley in 1967. He won multiple Scottish League and Cup titles with Rangers during the 1960s. After retiring in the early 1970s, he remained an iconic figure in Scottish football folklore. Baxter passed away in 2001 at the age of 61, remembered as one of Scotland’s all-time great midfielders.

Tommy Holmes spent his entire 15-year major league career with the Boston Braves, serving as both a standout outfielder and later as manager. He led the National League with a .352 batting average in 1945, ranking among the league's elite hitters. After retiring as a player in 1949, Holmes managed the Braves in 1950, demonstrating keen leadership skills. Known for his solid defense and consistent hitting, he earned respect from teammates and opponents alike. Post-baseball, he remained active in the sport as a scout and coach, contributing to player development. Holmes's dedication to the game and sportsmanship left a lasting legacy in Major League Baseball.

Émile 'Butch' Bouchard played his entire NHL career (1940-1956) with the Montreal Canadiens, winning eight Stanley Cups. Renowned for his strong defensive play and leadership, he served as captain from 1948 to 1952. Nicknamed 'Butch,' Bouchard was a six-time NHL All-Star and was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1966. After retiring as a player, he coached junior teams and worked as a team ambassador, promoting hockey across Canada. His commitment to the sport and his community earned him the Order of Canada in recognition of his contributions. Bouchard's legacy endures as one of the greatest defensemen in Canadiens history and a beloved figure in Quebec sports culture.

Born in Bergamo in 1986, Morosini rose through the youth ranks to become a dynamic midfielder in Serie A. He represented clubs like Udinese and Livorno, showcasing technical skill and work ethic. Tragically, he collapsed during a match in 2012, cutting short a promising career. He is remembered for his passion, dedication, and the impact he made on Italian football at a young age.

Mark Reeds was born in 1960 in Toronto and developed into a skilled center in junior hockey. He played parts of several seasons in the National Hockey League for teams including the St. Louis Blues and Hartford Whalers. After retiring as a player, Reeds transitioned to coaching, leading teams at both junior and professional levels. Known for his leadership and dedication, he served as an assistant coach in the NHL and head coach in the Ontario Hockey League. His mentorship left a lasting impact on players and the teams he guided before his passing in 2015.

Born in 1957 in Montreal, Mike Bossy starred as a right winger for the New York Islanders during the late 1970s and early 1980s. He scored 50 or more goals in each of his first nine NHL seasons and helped the Islanders win four consecutive Stanley Cup championships. Forced to retire early due to injury, he finished his career with 573 goals, making him one of the league's all-time greats. After retiring, Bossy became a respected sportscaster and mentor for young athletes. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1991 and remained an enduring figure in the sport until his death in 2022.

Ken Holtzman (born November 3, 1945) was an American left-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1967 to 1983. He was the first Chicago Cubs pitcher to throw two career no-hitters. Holtzman starred with the Oakland Athletics, winning three straight World Series from 1972 to 1974. Known for his deceptive curveball and durability, he also pitched for the Yankees and Orioles. Over his career, he recorded a 174-150 win-loss record with a 3.49 ERA and 1,422 strikeouts. After retiring, he remained active in scouting and coaching, influencing future generations of pitchers.