1987: A trade they probably regretted. The Chicago Cubs sent Dennis Eckersley to Oakland for three minor leaguers. In nine seasons with the A’s, “Eck” posted 320 saves, helped the team with three straight pennants, and was ultimately elected to the Hall of Fame.
1989: A thrilling overtime win. Michigan’s Rumeal Robinson hit two free throws in the final three seconds. Seton Hall then missed a shot at the buzzer, giving the Wolverines the 80–79 win for the NCAA men’s basketball national championship.
1994: A tray for the naty. Charlotte Smith nailed a three-pointer at the buzzer to give the UNC women’s basketball team the 60–59 win over Louisiana Tech in the national championship game. It was the first title for the Lady Tar Heels.
Time to wish a happy birthday today to . . . Minnesota Vikings Hall of Fame defensive end Jared Allen, who’s 44. Former Cincinnati Reds outfielder Jay Bruce is 39. Dallas Cowboys offensive lineman Tyler Smith is 25, and Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Jacob Misiorowski is 24.