May 14, 1963 - The Milwaukee Braves defeated the St. Louis Cardinals, 4-3, today as Warren Spahn gained his 332nd National League victory. The 42-year-old Spahn had the wind knocked out of him when he was struck in the lower abdomen by a liner off the bat of 42-year-old Stan Musial in the second inning (pictured left). However, he threw out Musial and stayed in. Spahn scattered 11 hits in raising his record to 5-2. Spahn also drove in the decisive run in the seventh off a suicide squeeze bunt. It was also announced today that the Braves renewed the contract of Manager Bobby Bragan. The contract will extend through 1964. Bragan received a one-year contract when he joined the Braves late last fall after Birdie Tebbetts had resigned to manage the Cleveland Indians. “It’s like Christmas in May,” said Bragan after the announcement. “I’m on Cloud Nine. This is the greatest thing that ever has happened to me. I’ve enjoyed my relationship here, and this solidifies it. Now I feel like one of the boys.” Bragan not only was rewarded with the pact, which calls for an increased salary, but also was given the green light to negotiate trades before the major-league deadline June 15. “He’s our boy,” president John McHale said in announcing the new contract. “Some sound and practical decisions will have to be made before June 15, and Bragan’s the man who has to make them.” McHale said the Braves definitely are trying for a major deal and indicated the Cardinals could be involved. While Bragan was celebrating and hailing Spahn’s performance in the Braves’ clubhouse, Cardinal starter Bob Gibson was reviewing his pitching mistakes in the visitors’ clubhouse. “I keep finding new ways to lose,” said Gibson, whose 3-9 record against the Braves is his worst against any club.
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