Mahlon Duckett facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mahlon Duckett |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
 |
|||
| Infielder | |||
| Born: December 20, 1922 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |
|||
| Died: July 12, 2015 (aged 92) Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |
|||
|
|||
| debut | |||
| 1940, for the Philadelphia Stars | |||
| Last appearance | |||
| 1950, for the Homestead Grays | |||
| Teams | |||
|
|||
Mahlon Newton "Mal" Duckett (December 20, 1922 – July 12, 2015) was a talented American baseball player. He played as an infielder in the Negro Leagues. Mal Duckett played for the Philadelphia Stars and the Homestead Grays. His career lasted from 1940 to 1950.
Mahlon Duckett's Baseball Career
Mahlon Duckett mostly played as a second baseman. Sometimes, he also played as a third baseman. An infielder is a player who plays in the infield, like near first, second, or third base.
Duckett was known for his amazing defense. He had a "slick glove," which means he was very good at catching the ball. He was not known for hitting the ball very hard. But his great fielding skills made him a valuable player.
Serving His Country
During his baseball career, Mahlon Duckett also served his country. He was a member of the U.S. Army. He served during World War II, a very big war that happened around the world.
A Special Honor
Years after his playing days, Mahlon Duckett received a special honor. In 2008, Major League Baseball held a unique draft. This draft was for players from the Negro Leagues who were still alive. Each team in Major League Baseball chose one of these legendary players.
The Philadelphia Phillies baseball team chose Mahlon Duckett. This was a way to recognize the amazing talent and contributions of Negro League players.
His Legacy
Mahlon Duckett passed away in 2015. He was the very last surviving player from the Philadelphia Stars team. He is buried at Ivy Hill Cemetery in his hometown of Philadelphia.
