This Day in Missouri Baseball History: Royals Up to Bat
April 8th, 1969: The Kansas City Royals played their first-ever game.
This day marked a significant moment for Kansas City which had been without a major league baseball team for two years after the Athletics moved to Oakland in 1967. The departure of the Athletics left Kansas City longing for a team to root for, and the Royals filled that void. The team’s name was inspired by the world-famous American Royal livestock show and barbecue competition held annually in town. Additionally, it paid homage to two Negro League teams.
Initially, the Royals played at the old Municipal Stadium, but in 1973, they moved to the newly constructed Royals Stadium. Later, in 1993, the stadium was renamed Kauffman Stadium in honor of founder Ewing Kauffman.
World Series Championships
The Kansas City Royals Defeated the St. Louis Cardinals 4-3 in the I-70 Series
The Kansas City Royals defeated the New York Mets 4-1.
Pennants
New York Yankees vs. Kansas City Royals. Kansas City won the series, 3–0.
Toronto Blue Jays vs. Kansas City Royals. Kansas City won the series, 4–3.
Baltimore Orioles vs Kansas City Royals. Kansas City won the series, 4–0.
Toronto Blue Jays vs. Kansas City Royals. Kansas City won the series, 4–2.
Players in Hall of Fame
| Year | Name | Years with Royals | Inducted As |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | Whitey Herzog | 1975-1979 | Manager |
| 2009 | Joe Gordon | 1969 (First Manager) | Player |
| 1999 | George Brett | 1973-1993 | Player |
| 1999 | Orlando Cepeda | 1974 | Player |
| 1991 | Gaylord Perry | 1983 | Player |
| 1984 | Harmon Killebrew | 1975 | Player |
| 1976 | Bob Lemon | 1970-1972 (Manager) | Player |
Stadiums
Kauffman Stadium (1973–present)
Municipal Stadium (1969–1972)
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