This Day in Reds History: Pete Rose homers in Gary Nolan's debut

On this day in 1931, Hall of Famer Ernie Lombardi made his major league debut with the Dodgers. Brooklyn traded him to Cincinnati in March of 1932, and the "Schnozz" had 10 very productive seasons with the Reds. During his tenure in Cincinnati, the Reds won a World Series title and an additional pennant.

Also on this day in 1931, former Red Ed Bailey was born in Strawberry Plains, TN. Like Lombardi, Bailey was a very good catcher while with the Reds.

On this day in 1935, the Reds returned Johnny Mize to the Cardinals after Cincinnati purchased him from St. Louis in December of 1934. This was a poor move on Cincinnati's part to put it kindly. Mize went on to have a fantastic career and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1981. "The Big Cat" was probably the best first baseman between Jimmie Foxx and Jeff Bagwell (or Frank Thomas if you prefer).

On this day in 1967, Gary Nolan made his major league debut with the Reds. He allowed 3 runs and struck out 8 in 7⅓ innings against the Astros at Crosley Field. Deron Johnson, Tommy Harper, and Pete Rose all homered as the Reds defeated the Astros, 7 - 3.

On this day in 1972, former Red Buddy Bell made his major league debut with the Cleveland Indians.