I didn't realize this was a racially motivated thread...
Catching is a skilled position like any other...one reason alot of blacks aren't catchers I would think, is because they are usually physically gifted...why waste a guys knees who can play the outfield or run like the wind?
Baseball Fever, Catch-It...ad campaign slogan from 1983
Catching is a skilled position like any other...one reason alot of blacks aren't catchers I would think, is because they are usually physically gifted...why waste a guys knees who can play the outfield or run like the wind?
Baseball Fever, Catch-It...ad campaign slogan from 1983
Quite possibly the best catcher of all time (black or otherwize) was Roy Campanella. Campanella, one of the five black players signed by Brooklyn Dodgers owner Branch Rickey before the 1946 season, was the first catcher to break organized baseball's color line. Just 5'9" but solidly built, he had already proven himself as a catcher during nine years in the Negro National League, the winter leagues, and Mexico. In 12 additional seasons, 10 in the majors, he was one of the era's outstanding players, and his leadership and indefatigable enthusiasm made him one of the most popular players in baseball histroy.
A member of the famed "The Boys of Summer." who won National League pennants in 1949, 1952, 1953, 1955, and 1956, narrowly missed two others, and climaxed Brooklyn's baseball history with its only World Series triumph in 1955. Campanella's contributions to the Dodgers were remarkable. He won the MVP award three times in five years. In 1953, his best season, he batted .312, and scored 103 runs. Also, his 142 RBI (which led the league) and 41 HR set ML records for catchers (plus one HR as a pinch-hitter). He fielded with grace that belied his physique and handled with distinction a predominantly white pitching staff.
wil.
So what is the real reason for the lack of black catchers? That is the point, right?
One, it was stated that black players play other position.
Two, I hypothesize baseball is not the sport of choice for African American youth. Basketball and football are preferable.
Three, there are not as many black baseball players period, not just pitchers and catchers. The majority of baseball players of color come from latin descent.
Just a few theories, not trying to stir up any racist feelings, but gettting to the root of the cause.
One, it was stated that black players play other position.
Two, I hypothesize baseball is not the sport of choice for African American youth. Basketball and football are preferable.
Three, there are not as many black baseball players period, not just pitchers and catchers. The majority of baseball players of color come from latin descent.
Just a few theories, not trying to stir up any racist feelings, but gettting to the root of the cause.
