Bruce Hocker facts for kids

Bruce William Hocker was a talented first baseman who played in the Negro leagues. He was born on August 6, 1894, and passed away on August 1, 1975. He played for several teams before the official Negro National League was formed in 1920.

Bruce Hocker's Baseball Journey

Bruce Hocker started his professional baseball career in 1913. His first team was the West Baden Sprudels. He played with them for two years. Over the next few years, he moved to different teams. These included the Louisville White Sox and the Chicago Black Sox.

Playing in the Negro Leagues

The Negro leagues were baseball leagues for African-American players. This was a time when players of color were not allowed in Major League Baseball. Bruce Hocker was an important player in these leagues. He played as a first baseman, a key defensive position.

He joined the Indianapolis ABCs in 1916. He also played for the Lincoln Stars that same year. In 1917, he played for the Pennsylvania Red Caps of New York. The next year, 1918, he was with the Hilldale Club. His final known team was the Dayton Marcos in 1920.

Life Beyond Baseball

Kipp's Parkway Hotel.

In 1917, Bruce Hocker registered for the draft during World War I. At that time, he worked as a musician. He played music at the Kipps Parkway Hotel in the Bronx, New York. This shows he had talents beyond baseball.

His exact burial place is not known today. Bruce Hocker was a part of baseball history. He played during an important time for the sport.

Images for kids

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  Kipp's Parkway Hotel.