IN THE NEWS: Leo Durocher, hired to manage the Yokohama Taiyo Whales (Japanese League), is sick with hepatitis and asks for a 5-week delay in reporting. The Lip receives a telegram from the Whales stating: Since the championship starts in 20 days, it's better if you stay home and take care of yourself for the remainder of the season."
IN THE NEWS: A nearly completed Mets-Dodgers trade, involving ace pitchers Tom Seaver and Don Sutton, is leaked by the New York press. The subsequent public furor causes the Mets to abandon the deal.