Dave Hoskins facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Dave Hoskins |
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| Pitcher | |||
| Born: August 3, 1917 Greenwood, Mississippi |
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| Died: April 2, 1970 (aged 52) Flint, Michigan |
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| Professional debut | |||
| NgL: 1942, for the Cincinnati Clowns | |||
| MLB: April 18, 1953, for the Cleveland Indians | |||
| Last appearance | |||
| September 21, 1954, for the Cleveland Indians | |||
| MLB statistics | |||
| Win–loss record | 9–4 | ||
| Earned run average | 3.81 | ||
| Innings pitched | 139+1⁄3 | ||
| Teams | |||
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| Career highlights and awards | |||
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David Will Hoskins (born August 3, 1917 – died April 2, 1970) was a talented American baseball player. He was a right-handed pitcher. He played for the Cleveland Indians in Major League Baseball (MLB). He played in 1953 and 1954. Before that, he played in the Negro leagues and minor leagues.
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Playing in the Negro Leagues
Dave Hoskins started his professional baseball journey in 1942. He played in the Negro leagues. These leagues were for African American players. He played for teams like the Cincinnati Clowns. He also played for the Chicago American Giants and the Homestead Grays. His time in the Negro leagues lasted until 1949.
Breaking Barriers in Minor League Baseball
In 1952, Dave Hoskins made history. He became the first African American player in the minor league Texas League. He pitched for the Dallas Eagles. This was a big step for baseball.
However, it was not always easy. He faced challenges, much like Jackie Robinson did. Some fans were not kind, especially outside of Dallas. At first, he was not allowed to play in Shreveport. This was when the Eagles played there.
Despite these difficulties, Hoskins was a star. He won 22 games for the Dallas Eagles in 1952. His earned run average (ERA) was very low at 2.12. An ERA shows how well a pitcher prevents runs. He was even chosen for the All-Star team. He also showed he could hit, with a .328 batting average. This is very good for a pitcher.
Reaching Major League Baseball
Dave Hoskins joined the Cleveland Indians in 1953. This was his chance to play in the "big leagues." He had a great first year, winning 9 games and losing only 3. His ERA was 3.99.
In 1954, his ERA improved to 3.04. That year, the Indians won the American League pennant. This meant they were the best team in their league.
During his time in Major League Baseball, Hoskins pitched over 139 innings. He allowed 131 hits and 48 walks. He also struck out 64 batters.
Hoskins was also a good hitter for a pitcher. He had a .227 batting average. He hit 1 home run and had 9 RBIs. Sometimes, he was even used as a pinch-hitter. This means he would bat in place of another player. He was also a perfect fielder, meaning he made no errors.
Later Life
Dave Hoskins passed away in Flint, Michigan in 1970. He was 52 years old. He is remembered for his talent and for helping to break down barriers in baseball.
See also
