Iowa's Field of Dreams Game Highlighted in White Sox History
On August 12, 2021, the Chicago White Sox and New York Yankees played the first Major League Baseball game in Iowa at the iconic Field of Dreams site in Dyersville. The nationally televised game, which drew 8,000 fans to a temporary stadium built next to the movie set, ended with a dramatic 9-8 White Sox victory on a walk-off home run by Tim Anderson.
The game was a highlight for Iowa sports fans and showcased the state's deep connection to baseball. White Sox first baseman Jose Abreu hit the first home run in a big league game in Iowa during the first inning. The win was sealed when Anderson launched a two-run homer in the bottom of the ninth after the White Sox had blown a three-run lead.
Original cast members from the 1989 film, including Kevin Costner, attended the celebration. The event was broadcast nationally on Fox Sports and remains a memorable moment in both White Sox and Iowa sports history.
Other Notable August 12 Events in White Sox History
Ed Walsh Sets Pitching Record (1907)
In a 5-3 loss to the Boston Americans, pitcher Ed Walsh recorded 11 assists over eight innings, becoming the first pitcher in history to have at least 11 assists in a game twice in one season. Walsh finished the 1907 season leading the majors in games (56), starts (46), complete games (37), saves (4), and innings pitched (422 1/3).
Joliet Native Ed Spiezio Puts Sox in First Place (1972)
Joliet native Ed Spiezio hit a go-ahead home run in the 11th inning off Hall of Famer Rollie Fingers, lifting the White Sox to a 3-1 win over the Oakland A's. The victory erased an 8 1/2 game deficit and put Chicago in first place for the first time since 1967. Wilbur Wood pitched a complete game, allowing just two hits for his 20th win.
Luis Aparicio Elected to Hall of Fame (1984)
Longtime White Sox shortstop Luis Aparicio was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in his sixth year on the ballot. Aparicio played 10 seasons with the White Sox, winning seven Gold Gloves and the 1956 Rookie of the Year award. He led the American League in stolen bases for nine straight seasons.
Steve Carlton Makes AL Debut (1986)
Future Hall of Famer Steve Carlton, acquired on waivers, made his American League debut with the White Sox. He pitched three innings, allowing six runs in a 7-3 loss to the Detroit Tigers. Carlton finished the season with a 4-3 record and a 3.69 ERA in 10 appearances for Chicago.
Record Rain Delay (1990)
The White Sox set what was believed to be the longest rain delay in baseball history, waiting seven hours and 23 minutes before officially calling off a game against the Texas Rangers at Comiskey Park. The teams eventually made up the game as part of a doubleheader in Arlington, Texas.
Tim Raines Records 2,000th Hit (1993)
Tim Raines hit a leadoff home run for his 2,000th career hit in a 4-2 loss to the Kansas City Royals. The White Sox, despite leading the AL West, were just the fifth-best team in the league at 62-52.
1994 Strike Ends Season
The major league players' strike ended the 1994 season, with the White Sox leading their division. Frank Thomas finished the season hitting .353 with 38 home runs and 101 RBIs, earning his second consecutive MVP award. Many fans blamed owner Jerry Reinsdorf for the work stoppage.
Bobby Jenks Ties Record (2007)
White Sox closer Bobby Jenks tied a major league record by retiring 41 consecutive batters, a streak that began July 17. The record was later broken by teammate Mark Buehrle in 2009.
Jose Abreu Makes History (2017)
Jose Abreu became the first player in White Sox history to hit at least 20 home runs in each of his first four seasons. He hit two home runs in the game against the Kansas City Royals.
Back-to-Back Leadoff Homers (2020)
Tim Anderson and Eloy Jimenez hit back-to-back leadoff home runs in a 7-5 win over the Detroit Tigers. It was the fifth time in franchise history the White Sox accomplished the feat.
FAQ
When was the first MLB game played in Iowa?
The first Major League Baseball game in Iowa was played on August 12, 2021, at the Field of Dreams site in Dyersville.
Who won the Field of Dreams game?
The Chicago White Sox won 9-8 on a walk-off home run by Tim Anderson.
What was unique about the Field of Dreams stadium?
An 8,000-seat temporary stadium was built next to the original movie set from the 1989 film. The game was nationally televised on Fox Sports.