Joshua (Josh) Gibson
Some consider Josh to be one of the best power hitters and catchers in the Negro League, and in any league for that matter. He hit almost 800 home runs in his league and independent baseball career. Over his 17-year career, he achieved so many things, such as being awarded the national Negro League batting champion in 1936, 1938, 1942, and 1945. Jackie Robinson Jackie loved sports since the beginning, but who knew his high school achievements would conjure into something much larger? Though he didn't play in the Negro Leagues for long, he still participated in it. He played for the Kansas City Monarchs for his one year in the league, and then moved straight on to the Major Leagues. He was a huge part in breaking the color barrier in the sport of baseball. Leroy (Satchel) Paige Paige is said to be the best pitcher in the history of the Negro Leagues. Even Joe DiMaggio called him "the best and fastest pitcher I've ever faced." In 1933, Satchel achieved 21 straight wins, 64 scoreless innings, and a 31-4 record. His goal was to make it to the Major Leagues and pitch, and he indeed achieved his dream. Paige was admitted to the Hall of Fame in 1971. |