Today in White Sox History: April 23

1919

Perhaps the most talented White Sox team ever opened the season in St. Louis and destroyed the Browns, 13-4. Lefty Williams got the win, throwing a complete game.

Six months later, after winning the American League pennant, the ‘‘Black Sox’’ threw the series and lost to the Cincinnati Reds. Eight players would be banned the following year, including Williams, and the only franchise capable of stopping the emerging New York Yankees juggernaut was decimated.

1949

White Sox lefthander Billy Pierce won his first major league game. Pierce threw almost four innings in relief of starter Al Gettel and got the decision in a 12-5 win over the Browns at Comiskey Park.

Billy would win 186 games with the Sox, make the All-Star team seven times, throw four one-hitters and finish with 211 wins overall in his brilliant career.

1955

The White Sox collected 29 hits and hammered the Athletics, 29-6, at Kansas City. Every starter had at least one hit, including starting pitcher Jack Harshman.

The 29 runs were a major league record that stood until 2007, and remains tied with three other teams for second-most ever. The 23-run margin of victory remains the biggest in White Sox history.

The Sox hit seven home runs that night, which remains tied for the franchise-most in a game. Bob Nieman went 3-for-4 with two homers and seven RBIs. Sherm Lollar and Minnie Miñoso added five RBIs apiece.

1990

It was an unusual event, even for an exhibition game. Utility player Steve Lyons played all nine positions for the White Sox during the annual “Crosstown Classic” game against the Cubs at Wrigley Field. Manager Jeff Torborg moved him all over the field during the contest, won by the Sox, 6-5. Outfielder Dave Gallagher threw out the potential tying run at home plate to end the game.