Otto Ray facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Otto Ray |
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| Catcher | |||
| Born: May 19, 1893 Lexington, Missouri |
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| Died: January 19, 1976 (aged 82) Liberty, Missouri |
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| debut | |||
| 1920, for the Kansas City Monarchs | |||
| Last appearance | |||
| 1926, for the Gilkerson's Union Giants | |||
| Teams | |||
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Otto C. "Jaybird" Ray was a talented baseball player who played in the Negro Leagues. He was born on May 19, 1893, in Lexington, Missouri, and passed away on January 19, 1976, in Liberty, Missouri. Otto mostly played as a Catcher and sometimes as an Outfielder. His teammate, George Carr, once said that Otto was so good he could not only catch but also help out at first base!
Who Was Otto "Jaybird" Ray?
Otto Ray, often called "Jaybird," was an important player in the Negro Leagues. These leagues were where African American baseball players could show their amazing skills during a time when they were not allowed to play in Major League Baseball. Otto was especially known for his strong play behind home plate as a catcher.
Playing Baseball
Otto Ray started his professional baseball journey with the famous Kansas City Monarchs in 1920. The Monarchs were one of the most well-known teams in the Negro Leagues. He played for several different teams throughout his career, showing his talent as both a catcher and an outfielder.
- Some of the teams Otto played for included the Los Angeles White Sox, the Chicago Giants, and the St. Louis Stars.
- He also played for the Cleveland Tate Stars and the Cleveland Browns.
- His last known team was Gilkerson's Union Giants in 1926.
Otto Ray as a Manager
Besides playing, Otto Ray also had a chance to manage a baseball team. In 1924, he managed the Cleveland Browns. This was the only season that team played, and Otto led them under the guidance of another baseball legend, Sol White.
Later Life
Otto Ray lived to be 82 years old. He passed away in Liberty, Missouri, in 1976. He was laid to rest at the Fort Leavenworth National Cemetery in Leavenworth, Kansas.
