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Knucks James
Knucks James.jpg
Second baseman
Born: May 2, 1878
Norfolk, Virginia
Died: June 1966
New York City, New York (aged 88)
Batted: Right Threw: Right
debut
1905, for the Brooklyn Royal Giants
Last appearance
1918, for the Brooklyn Royal Giants
Teams
  • Brooklyn Royal Giants (1905–1906, 1917–1918)
  • Cuban X-Giants (1906)
  • Philadelphia Giants (1908–1911)
  • Paterson Smart Set (1912–1913)
  • Schenectady Mohawk Giants (1913–1914)
  • Louisville White Sox (1914)
  • Lincoln Giants (1914–1915)
  • Bacharach Giants (1916–1917)

William "Knucks" James (born May 2, 1878 – died June 1966) was an American baseball player. He was a skilled second baseman in the Negro Leagues. Knucks James played professional baseball from 1905 to 1918. He played for many different teams during his career.

Who Was Knucks James?

William James was born in Norfolk, Virginia, on May 2, 1878. He later became known by his nickname, "Knucks." He grew up to be a talented baseball player. Knucks played a key position called second base.

Starting His Baseball Career

Knucks James began his professional baseball journey in 1905. His first team was the Brooklyn Royal Giants. This team was part of the Negro Leagues. These leagues were very important for Black baseball players. They played at a time when they were not allowed in Major League Baseball.

Playing in the Negro Leagues

The Negro Leagues were professional baseball leagues. They were created for African American players. These leagues gave amazing athletes like Knucks James a chance to play. They showed off their skills and love for the game. Knucks played for many teams in these leagues.

Knucks James's Teams

Knucks James played for several teams during his career. He often moved between different clubs. This was common for players in the early 1900s.

Some of the teams he played for include:

  • Brooklyn Royal Giants (1905–1906, 1917–1918)
  • Cuban X-Giants (1906)
  • Philadelphia Giants (1908–1911)
  • Paterson Smart Set (1912–1913)
  • Schenectady Mohawk Giants (1913–1914)
  • Louisville White Sox (1914)
  • Lincoln Giants (1914–1915)
  • Bacharach Giants (1916–1917)

His last known season was in 1918. He finished his career with the Brooklyn Royal Giants.

Life Beyond the Field

Knucks James was not just a baseball player. He also had a family. In 1914, his wife, Sadie, traveled with him. They went on a trip when his team, the Mohawk Giants, played games in Indianapolis and Chicago. Knucks James passed away in June 1966 in New York City. He was 88 years old.

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