Harry Salmon (baseball) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Harry Salmon |
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| Pitcher | |||
| Born: May 30, 1895 Warrior, Alabama |
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| Died: April 1983 (aged 87) Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania |
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| debut | |||
| 1920, for the Birmingham Black Barons | |||
| Last appearance | |||
| 1935, for the Homestead Grays | |||
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Harry Lee "Beans" Salmon was a talented American baseball pitcher. He was born on May 30, 1895, in Warrior, Alabama. Harry played baseball during a time when African American players were not allowed in Major League Baseball. Because of this, he played in the Negro leagues.
Harry Salmon played professional baseball for many years, from 1920 to 1935. He was known for his pitching skills. He played for several different teams during his career, but he spent most of his time with the Birmingham Black Barons. He passed away in April 1983 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
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What Were the Negro Leagues?
The Negro Leagues were professional baseball leagues for African American players. They were created because of racial segregation in the United States. This meant that Black players were not allowed to play in the same leagues as white players.
Even though they faced unfair rules, the Negro Leagues were very important. They gave amazing Black athletes a chance to show their skills. Many of these players were incredibly talented, even though they didn't get the same recognition as players in the Major Leagues at the time.
A Time of Change in Baseball
The Negro Leagues were active from the late 1800s until the 1940s. They featured many famous teams and players. Games were exciting, and fans loved to watch the incredible talent on display.
The leagues helped keep baseball alive for many communities. They also played a big part in the fight for civil rights. They showed that Black athletes were just as good, if not better, than anyone else.
Harry Salmon's Baseball Journey
Harry Salmon was a left-handed batter and a right-handed pitcher. This meant he threw the ball with his right hand but swung the bat from the left side of the plate. He was often called "Beans" by his teammates and fans.
His career began in 1920 with the Birmingham Black Barons. This team was based in Birmingham, Alabama, close to where Harry was born. He returned to play for them for many seasons throughout his career.
Playing for Different Teams
Like many players in the Negro Leagues, Harry Salmon played for several teams. This was common as players moved to find the best opportunities. After his first year with the Black Barons, he played for the Pittsburgh Keystones in 1921.
He also spent time with the Memphis Red Sox in 1924 and again in 1930. Towards the end of his career, he joined the famous Homestead Grays in 1932 and played with them until his final season in 1935.
Harry's Role as a Pitcher
As a pitcher, Harry Salmon's job was to throw the baseball in a way that the batter couldn't hit it. Pitchers are key players in baseball, and a good pitcher can help their team win many games.
While specific statistics for many Negro League players are hard to find today, playing for 15 seasons shows Harry was a consistent and valuable player. He was part of an important era in baseball history.
Legacy of the Negro Leagues
The Negro Leagues eventually ended after Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in Major League Baseball in 1947. This opened the door for Black players to join the previously all-white leagues.
Today, we remember players like Harry Salmon and the Negro Leagues for their amazing talent and their strength. They played baseball with passion and skill, even when facing unfair challenges. Their contributions are a vital part of baseball's story.
