Jeff Jefferson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Jeff Jefferson |
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| Pitcher | |||
| Born: August 8, 1922 Bartow, Florida |
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| Died: September 21, 1985 (aged 63) Erie, Pennsylvania |
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| debut | |||
| 1942, for the Jacksonville Red Caps | |||
| Last appearance | |||
| 1950, for the Cleveland Buckeyes | |||
| Teams | |||
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| Career highlights and awards | |||
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George Leo "Jeff" Jefferson (born August 8, 1922 – died September 21, 1985) was an American baseball pitcher. He played in the Negro leagues, which were important baseball leagues for African American players. Jeff Jefferson played for the Jacksonville Red Caps in 1942 and 1943. He then joined the Cleveland Buckeyes from 1944 to 1950. His brother, Bill Jefferson, also played baseball in the Negro leagues.
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Jeff Jefferson: A Baseball Hero
Jeff Jefferson was a talented baseball pitcher who made a name for himself in the Negro leagues. He was known for his strong pitching skills. These leagues gave African American players a chance to show their amazing talents. They played at a time when major league baseball was not open to everyone.
What Were the Negro Leagues?
The Negro leagues were professional baseball leagues in the United States. They were active from the late 1800s until the 1960s. These leagues were created because African American players were not allowed to play in Major League Baseball. Despite this, the Negro leagues featured some of the best baseball players in history. They played exciting games and had many loyal fans. The players in these leagues were true pioneers. They helped change the future of baseball.
Jeff Jefferson's Early Career
Jeff Jefferson was born in Bartow, Florida. He grew up loving baseball. He started his professional career in 1942. His first team was the Jacksonville Red Caps. He played with them for two seasons. During this time, he developed his skills as a pitcher. He showed great promise on the mound.
Playing for the Cleveland Buckeyes
In 1944, Jeff Jefferson joined the Cleveland Buckeyes. This team was one of the most successful in the Negro leagues. He played a big part in their success. The Buckeyes were a strong team with many talented players. Jeff's pitching helped them win many games.
Winning the Negro World Series
One of the biggest moments in Jeff Jefferson's career was in 1945. That year, the Cleveland Buckeyes won the Negro World Series. This was a championship series between the best teams from different Negro leagues. Winning the World Series was a huge achievement. It showed that Jeff and his team were among the very best. He helped his team make history.
Later Years in Baseball
After his time with the Cleveland Buckeyes, Jeff Jefferson also played for the Louisville Buckeyes in 1947. He then returned to the Cleveland Buckeyes. He continued to play for them until 1950. His career in the Negro leagues lasted for eight years. He was a consistent and reliable pitcher.
Jeff Jefferson's Legacy
Jeff Jefferson was an important part of Negro league baseball history. He was one of many talented players who helped keep baseball alive for African Americans. Their skills and determination paved the way for future generations. They showed the world that talent knows no color. Jeff Jefferson passed away in 1985. His contributions to baseball are still remembered today.
