Clyde McNeal facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Clyde McNeal |
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| Shortstop | |||
| Born: December 15, 1928 San Antonio, Texas |
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| Died: April 14, 1996 (aged 67) San Antonio, Texas |
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| debut | |||
| 1945, for the Chicago American Giants | |||
| Last appearance | |||
| 1955, for the Sultanes de Monterrey | |||
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Clyde Clifton "Junior" McNeal (born December 15, 1928 – died April 14, 1996) was an American professional baseball player. He was a shortstop, which is a player who fields between second and third base. Clyde McNeal played in several different baseball leagues, including the Negro leagues, minor leagues, and the Mexican League. His career lasted from 1945 to 1957.
McNeal played for the Chicago American Giants from 1945 to 1950. Later, he joined the Brooklyn Dodgers' minor league teams from 1953 to 1957. He also played for the Sultanes de Monterrey in Mexico in 1955.
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Clyde McNeal's Baseball Journey
Clyde "Junior" McNeal was a talented baseball player who made his mark in different leagues during a time of big changes in baseball history. He was known for his skills as a shortstop.
Early Life and Baseball Beginnings
Clyde Clifton McNeal was born in San Antonio, Texas, on December 15, 1928. From a young age, he showed a passion for baseball. He grew up to become a professional player, starting his career when he was just 16 years old.
Playing in the Negro Leagues
McNeal began his professional baseball journey in the Negro leagues. These leagues were very important because, for many years, African American players were not allowed to play in Major League Baseball due to segregation. The Negro leagues provided a place for incredibly talented Black athletes to play and showcase their skills.
Clyde McNeal played for the Chicago American Giants, one of the most famous teams in the Negro leagues. He was with them from 1945 to 1950. Playing in these leagues meant he competed against some of the best baseball players of his time.
Moving to Minor League Baseball
After his time in the Negro leagues, McNeal joined the minor league system of the Brooklyn Dodgers. Minor leagues are like training grounds for players hoping to reach Major League Baseball. Players develop their skills and get experience playing against other professionals.
He played for several Dodgers minor league teams from 1953 to 1957. These teams included the Elmira Pioneers, Montreal Royals, Newport News Dodgers, Pueblo Dodgers, and Cedar Rapids Raiders. This part of his career showed his dedication to the sport and his ability to adapt to new teams and leagues.
Playing in Mexico
In 1955, Clyde McNeal also played in the Mexican League for the Sultanes de Monterrey. Many American players, including some from the Negro leagues, found opportunities to play in Mexico. The Mexican League was known for its exciting style of play and often welcomed players from different backgrounds.
His Legacy
Clyde McNeal's career spanned over a decade, playing in various leagues. He was a part of an important era in baseball history, especially as the sport began to integrate. His contributions to the Negro leagues and his time in the minor leagues and Mexico show his talent and love for the game. He passed away in his hometown of San Antonio, Texas, on April 14, 1996.
