On this day in 1997, the Brewers rode a three run first inning to a 4-2 victory over the Orioles at County Stadium. Fernando Vina finished he game a homer short of the cycle, and five different Brewers attempted a stolen base. The historic moment, however, came at the end of the game.
With the Brewers protecting a 4-2 lead, Doug Jones was called upon to pitch the ninth. He retired the side in order for his 25th consecutive save, setting a Brewer franchise record that stood for 14 years. His streak lasted from May until his second-to-last outing of the season: The next day he blew a save against the Orioles and ended it in his final 1997 appearance.
Jones' 1997 season was one of the best ever for a Brewer closer: He led the AL in games finished with 73 and recorded 36 saves with a 2.02 ERA. He even finished 20th in the league MVP voting. These facts become all the more impressive when you consider that Jones was 40 years old. He went on to pitch three more major league seasons as a Brewer, Indian and Athletic.
John Axford, of course, broke Jones' record this season. His streak is at 42 games and counting.
With help from the B-Ref Play Index, happy birthday today to 2006-08 Brewer Brian Shouse. He turns 43.
Also, happy anniversary today to relief pitcher Dave Baldwin, who had his only major league hit as a Brewer on this day in 1970.