Leroy Cromartie facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Leroy Cromartie |
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| Second baseman | |
| Born: December 15, 1922 Miami, Florida |
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| Died: September 14, 2000 (aged 77) Miami, Florida |
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| debut | |
| 1945, for the Indianapolis Clowns | |
| Last appearance | |
| 1945, for the Indianapolis Clowns | |
| Teams | |
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Leroy Oliver Cromartie was an American baseball player who played as a second baseman in the Negro Leagues during the 1940s. He was known for his skills on the field and later became the father of another famous baseball player, Warren Cromartie.
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Who Was Leroy Cromartie?
Leroy Cromartie was born on December 15, 1922, in Miami, Florida. He grew up loving sports and showed great talent early on. He became a professional baseball player during a time when African American players faced many challenges.
Early Life and Education
Leroy Cromartie attended Booker T. Washington Senior High School in Miami, Florida. He graduated in 1943. After high school, he went on to play college football for Florida A&M University. He was so good at football that he was even chosen as an All-America player.
Playing in the Negro Leagues
In 1945, Leroy Cromartie joined the Indianapolis Clowns, a professional baseball team in the Negro Leagues. He played as a second baseman. The Negro Leagues were a group of baseball leagues where African American players could play professionally. This was because, at the time, major league baseball did not allow Black players.
What Were the Negro Leagues?
The Negro Leagues were very important in American sports history. They were created because of racial segregation, which meant Black and white people were kept separate. Even though they faced many difficulties, the Negro Leagues featured some of the most talented baseball players in the world. Players like Leroy Cromartie showed incredible skill and passion for the game. These leagues helped pave the way for future Black players to join Major League Baseball.
Family and Legacy
Leroy Cromartie's love for baseball continued through his family. He was the father of Warren Cromartie, who also became a professional baseball player. Warren Cromartie played in Major League Baseball and was a well-known outfielder. Leroy Cromartie passed away in Miami, Florida, on September 14, 2000, at the age of 77. He is remembered as a talented athlete who contributed to the rich history of the Negro Leagues.
