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Leroy Holmes (baseball) facts for kids

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Leroy Holmes
Philly Holmes.png
Shortstop
Born: (1912-12-12)December 12, 1912
Brunswick, Georgia
Died: October 7, 1985(1985-10-07) (aged 72)
Atlanta, Georgia
Batted: Left Threw: Right
debut
1937, for the Jacksonville Red Caps
Last appearance
1945, for the Cincinnati Clowns
Teams
  • Jacksonville Red Caps (1937–1938)
  • Cleveland Bears (1939)
  • Indianapolis ABCs (1939)
  • New York Black Yankees (1945)
  • Cincinnati Clowns (1945)

Leroy Holmes (born December 12, 1912 – died October 7, 1985) was a skilled American baseball player. He was known by his nicknames "Philly" and "Buddy." Leroy played as a shortstop in the Negro Leagues from 1937 to 1945.

Who Was Leroy Holmes?

Leroy Holmes was born in Brunswick, Georgia. He grew up with a love for baseball. His brother, Lefty Holmes, also became a player in the Negro Leagues. This shows that baseball talent ran in their family. Leroy went to Bethune-Cookman College before starting his professional career.

Playing in the Negro Leagues

Leroy Holmes played during a time when baseball was segregated in the United States. This meant that African American players could not play in the major leagues. Instead, they formed their own professional teams and leagues. These were known as the Negro Leagues. Many amazing players, like Leroy, showed their skills in these leagues.

His Baseball Journey

Leroy Holmes began his professional baseball career in 1937. His first team was the Jacksonville Red Caps. He played with them for two seasons. In 1939, he played for two different teams. These were the Cleveland Bears and the Indianapolis ABCs.

After a break, Leroy returned to baseball in 1945. He played for the New York Black Yankees. He also played for the Cincinnati Clowns that same year. His career in the Negro Leagues ended in 1945.

Life After Baseball

Leroy Holmes passed away in 1985. He was 72 years old. He died in Atlanta, Georgia, the same state where he was born. His contributions to baseball, especially in the Negro Leagues, are an important part of sports history.

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