1958 Hall of Fame Game

In one of the shortest Hall of Fame Games on record, a go-ahead two-run single by Washington first baseman Norm Zauchin in the top of the fifth inning proved to be the difference, as the Senators defeated the Philadelphia Phillies 5-4 on Aug. 4, 1958.

Zauchin’s timely hit came with two runners in scoring position. After Faye Throneberry singled, Jim Lemon hit a double to put runners on second and third.

The game featured back-and-forth play, as Washington struck first in the top of the second inning. Senator catcher Clint Courtney doubled to left field, and advanced to third when Zauchin singled. He scored when Ossie Alvarez hit into a double play.

The Phillies responded with a run in their half of the second as Willie Jones led off the inning with a solo shot to right field off of Washington starter Jim Constable.

Both teams added two runs in the third inning. Albie Pearson hit a two-run home run for the Senators to give his team a 3-1 edge in the top of the third. A single, a double, and a sacrifice fly scored Philadelphia’s second run of the game, then Richie Ashburn scored on Ed Bouchee’s single to knot the score at three.

Philadelphia held Washington scoreless in the top of the fourth inning, then took its first lead of the game in the bottom half of the inning when Chico Fernandez doubled, advanced to third on a groundout, then stole home.

The lead did not last though, as the Senators rallied for two runs in the top of the fifth inning, capped by Zauchin’s single.

Seth Morehead started and pitched a complete game for the Phillies. He allowed five runs on nine hits while striking out two and walking four.

Constable allowed four runs on six hits in his four innings pitched. Vito Valentinetti took over for him in the fifth and did not allow a Philadelphia hit in his five innings, earning credit for the win.

Zauchin led the way offensively for Washington with a 2-for-3 performance. He also had two RBI.

The game lasted just one hour and 50 minutes.