Abner Powell's impact on baseball commemorated 140 years later
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 22, 2026, 11:00 AM
Last updated Aug 22, 2026

On August 22, 2026, baseball historians reflect on Abner Powell's contributions after an incident on this day 140 years ago. In a game between the Louisville Colonels and the Cincinnati Red Stockings, Powell famously battled a dog while trying to field a fly ball, leading to a humorous inside-the-park home run. Powell's legacy includes innovations like the modern tarp and the ticket stub system, which transformed how teams managed rain delays and handled attendance. His efforts made the game more family-friendly and paved the way for future protocols regarding inclement weather.
- •140 years ago, Abner Powell struggled with a dog during a game.
- •Powell's efforts led to the invention of the modern tarp.
- •He also developed the ticket stub system for rainouts.
- •Powell's contributions helped make baseball more family-friendly.
- •The game was tied 3-3 before the incident occurred.
- 11:00 AMYahoo Sports — Ode to the Father of the Rain Delay
"140 years ago today, Abner Powell was bit by a dog in the outfield; so let’s reflect on his legacy.
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