Today in White Sox History: January 31
Inflated value: Billy Sullivan wasn't just an ace backstop, but an inventor! (Turkey Red)
1909
White Sox catcher Billy Sullivan secured a patent on the first catcher's chest protector. It contained a wind pad with compressed air.
2003
The U.S. Cellular Company and the White Sox signed an agreement selling the naming rights to Comiskey Park. The deal was worth $68 million over 23 years. The money received by the club contained the stipulation that it could only be used on renovations and upgrades for the stadium, not for player additions via free agency. The renovations made the ballpark, now Guaranteed Rate Field, one of the finest-looking stadiums in baseball.
Mark Liptak is originally from Chicago and has been a White Sox fan since 1960. He and his wife Zoe reside in Pocatello, Idaho where he is the radio voice as part of Idaho State athletics in volleyball, football, women's basketball and softball.
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