PHILADELPHIA — Thanks to RHP Nathan Karns, the memory of Harry McCormick was rekindled.
McCormick was the only rookie pitcher in major league history, according to the Elias Sports Bureau, to homer for the lone run of the game until Karns did it Tuesday during the Rays’ 1-0 victory against the Phillies.
McCormick, who pitched for the Syracuse Stars, did it July 26, 1879, against the Boston Red Caps.
Karns is also the sixth pitcher in AL history to homer for the game’s lone run and the only pitcher in either league to do it during interleague play.