The Negro Leagues Were Major Leagues: Historians Reappraise Black Baseball

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How good was Negro League Baseball (1920-1948)? Some experts maintain that the quality of play was equal to that of the American and National Leagues. Some believe the Negro Leagues should be part of Major League Baseball’s official record and that more NL players should be in the Hall of Fame. Skeptics contend that while many players could be rated highly, NL organizations were minor league at best.

Drawing on the most comprehensive data available, including stats from more than 2000 interracial games, this study finds that black baseball was very good indeed. Negro leaguers beat the big leaguers more than half the time in head-to-head contests, demonstrated stronger metrics within their own leagues and excelled when finally allowed into the majors. The author documents the often duplicitous manner in which MLB has dealt with the legacy of the Negro Leagues. A detailed history of early pro black ball is included, along with the stories of several legendary players and teams.