Bill Drake (baseball) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Bill Drake |
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Drake at the 1924 Colored World Series
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| Pitcher | |||
| Born: June 8, 1895 Sedalia, Missouri |
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| Died: October 30, 1977 (aged 82) St. Louis, Missouri |
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| debut | |||
| 1920, for the St. Louis Giants | |||
| Last appearance | |||
| 1927, for the Detroit Stars | |||
| Negro National League statistics | |||
| Win–loss record | 68-58 | ||
| Run average | 4.71 | ||
| Strikeouts | 485 | ||
| Teams | |||
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William P. "Plunk" Drake (born June 8, 1895 – died October 30, 1977) was an important baseball pitcher. He played in the Negro Leagues, which were professional baseball leagues for African-American players. These leagues existed when Black players were not allowed to play in Major League Baseball.
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Who Was Bill Drake?
Bill Drake was born in Sedalia, Missouri. He became a talented baseball pitcher. A pitcher is the player who throws the ball from the mound to the batter. Drake was known for his strong arm and clever pitching style.
Playing in the Negro Leagues
Drake played for several top teams in the Negro Leagues. His career lasted from 1920 to 1927. He was a key player during a time when baseball was segregated. The Negro Leagues showcased amazing talent and exciting games.
His Time with the Kansas City Monarchs
Bill Drake is best remembered for his time with the Kansas City Monarchs. This was one of the most famous teams in the Negro Leagues. He helped the Monarchs become a very successful team.
World Series Appearances
Drake played in two Colored World Series. These were championship games between the best teams from different Negro Leagues. He played in the 1924 and 1925 series. This showed he was one of the top pitchers of his era.
How He Got His Nickname
Bill Drake's nickname was "Plunk." He got this name because of how he pitched. He liked to throw the ball very close to the batters. This made them move away from the plate. It was a way to control the game and make batters uncomfortable.
Teaching Satchel Paige?
Some people say that Bill Drake taught the famous pitcher Satchel Paige his "hesitation pitch." This was a special way of throwing the ball that confused batters. While many give credit to another player, Bill Gatewood, it shows Drake's skill and influence.
Bill Drake passed away in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1977. He left behind a legacy as a talented pitcher in Negro League baseball history.
