Jimmy Oldham facts for kids

James Oldham (born April 15, 1893 – died April 21, 1930), often called Jimmy, was an American baseball player. He was a pitcher in the Negro leagues during the 1920s. These leagues were important for African-American players when they were not allowed to play in Major League Baseball.

Jimmy Oldham was born in Brownsville, Tennessee. He started his professional baseball career in 1920. He played for the St. Louis Giants, a team in the Negro leagues.

Playing for St. Louis

Jimmy Oldham played as a pitcher for four seasons. He began with the St. Louis Giants in 1920. In 1922, his team changed its name to the St. Louis Stars. He continued to play for them until 1923.

A Pitcher's Role

As a pitcher, Jimmy's job was to throw the baseball. He would throw it from the pitcher's mound to the batter. The goal was to make it hard for the batter to hit the ball. Pitchers are very important players in a baseball game.

Life and Legacy

After his baseball career, Jimmy Oldham passed away in St. Louis, Missouri in 1930. He was 37 years old. Even though he played in a time when baseball was segregated, players like Jimmy Oldham helped keep the sport alive and exciting for many fans.