Newt Allen facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Newt Allen |
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Allen at the 1924 Colored World Series
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| Second Baseman / Manager | |||
| Born: May 19, 1901 Austin, Texas |
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| Died: June 9, 1988 (aged 87) Cincinnati, Ohio |
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| debut | |||
| 1922, for the All Nations | |||
| Last appearance | |||
| 1947, Indianapolis Clowns | |||
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As Player
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Newton Henry Allen (born May 19, 1901 – died June 9, 1988) was a talented American baseball player. He played as a second baseman and later became a manager. Newt Allen was famous for playing in the Negro Leagues.
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Newt Allen's Baseball Journey
Newt Allen was born in Austin, Texas. He started his career in the Negro Leagues in 1922. His first team was the Kansas City Monarchs. He played with the Monarchs for most of his career. He stayed with them until he retired in 1948.
Playing for the Monarchs
Newt Allen was a key player for the Kansas City Monarchs. He briefly played for other teams in 1931 and 1932. These teams included the St. Louis Stars and the Detroit Wolves. But he always returned to the Monarchs. He was known for his strong leadership skills.
Becoming a Manager
In 1941, Newt Allen became the Monarchs' manager. This happened when their previous manager, Andy Cooper, became ill. Allen led the team to win the Negro American League championship that year. However, he decided to step down as manager before the next season. He went back to being a reserve infielder.
Newt Allen's Skills as a Player
Newt Allen was an amazing player. He was very good at scoring runs. He often used bunts and stole bases to help his team. He was one of the fastest baserunners in the Negro Leagues.
His Best Season
His best year was in 1929. That season, he had a batting average of .330. He also hit 24 doubles and stole 23 bases. This was a great achievement, especially in the shorter Negro League seasons.
A Top Fielder
Newt Allen was also an excellent fielder. Many experts thought he was the best fielding second baseman of his time. He was especially good when the game was close and the pressure was high. He played well from the 1920s through the 1940s.
Recognition and Legacy
Many baseball experts believe Newt Allen was a truly great player. Some even say he was better than some white players who are in the Hall of Fame.
Hall of Fame Consideration
Newt Allen was considered for the Baseball Hall of Fame. In 2006, he was one of 39 finalists. These players were from the Negro Leagues and earlier leagues. However, he was not one of the 17 players chosen that year.
Pittsburgh Courier Poll
In 1952, the Pittsburgh Courier newspaper held a poll. They asked who the greatest Black players were. Newt Allen was listed on the second team of this poll. This shows how respected he was in baseball.
Later Life
Newt Allen passed away at the age of 87. He died on June 9, 1988, in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Career Statistics
- .293 career batting average
- 16 home runs
- 640 games played
