The rangy Johnson's wildness impeded his career, though he had flashes of brilliance; he pitched a one-hitter for the Cardinals in his first ML start. Traded to the Phillies in April 1950, Johnson went 4-1 on the way to the pennant. (AL)

FROM THE BASEBALL CHRONOLOGY » July 16, 1950: The Cubs knock the Phillies out of a tie for first place, sweeping 8–0 and 10–3. The Cubs lose Phil Cavarretta when he is hit by a Ken Johnson pitch in game 1, fracturing his forearm. Hank Sauer takes over 1B. Walt Dubiel fires the shutout and Doyle Lade is the CG winner in game 2. The loss goes to Bob Miller in game 2, the first defeat for the rookie after eight straight wins. Ex-Bruin Russ Meyer loses the first game after defeating the Cubs five straight times (as noted by Ed Hartig). The Mad Monk, the greatest ever Cubs killer, will win his next 17 decisions against Chicago before losing on May 11, 1955. » September 5, 1951: Ralph Branca, despite twinges in his arm, pitches the Dodgers to a 5–2 win over the Phillies. Gil Hodges drives home four runs on a grand slam off Ken Johnson. It is Gil's 37th homer of year, setting a new Dodger record.