This Day in Walter O’Malley History: January 31

In ceremonies at Borough Hall, Borough President John Cashmore proclaims “Dazzy Vance Day” in Brooklyn to salute Hall of Fame pitcher Arthur (Dazzy) Vance. Just five days earlier, Vance was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Walter O’Malley praised the 63-year-old right-hander, who was an integral part of the Dodgers of the 1920s, calling him “the greatest pitcher we’ll ever see in our lifetime.” He was the first Dodger player to be elected to the Hall of Fame. Johnny Podres, 22, also took part in the tribute to Vance, who then predicted that the Dodgers would win the World Series in 1955. Interestingly, it was Podres who was on the mound when the Dodgers won Game 7 of the World Series in October.

Walter O’Malley sends a letter of congratulations to Toru Shoriki and the Yomiuri Giants who are celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the birth of baseball in Japan. He writes, “How proud you all must feel that the sport now entertains millions. But there is a deeper meaning, as well, in the fact that baseball creates a natural and binding tie between our two countries where it is the No. 1 sport. In recent years this feeling of fellowship has been increased by the visits of players from our country to Japan and your players here. It is my sincere hope to enjoy another trip soon (to Japan). Meanwhile, the welcome mat of American baseball is out to all who visit from Japan.”