Schoolboy Johnny Taylor facts for kids
Quick facts for kids "Schoolboy" Johnny Taylor |
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| Pitcher | |||
| Born: February 4, 1916 Hartford, Connecticut |
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| Died: June 15, 1987 (aged 71) Hartford, Connecticut |
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| debut | |||
| 1935, for the New York Cubans | |||
| Last appearance | |||
| 1945, for the New York Cubans | |||
| Career statistics | |||
| Win–loss record | 17-17 | ||
| Earned run average | 4.14 | ||
| Strikeouts | 228 | ||
| Shutouts | 2 | ||
| Teams | |||
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John Arthur Taylor, Jr. (born February 4, 1916 – died June 15, 1987) was a talented baseball player. People often called him "Schoolboy" because he was so young when he started playing professionally. He was a pitcher in the Negro Leagues during the 1930s and 1940s. The Negro Leagues were baseball leagues for African American players when they were not allowed to play in Major League Baseball.
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Who Was "Schoolboy" Johnny Taylor?
Johnny Taylor was born in Hartford, Connecticut. Even when he was young, he was great at sports. At Bulkeley High School, he was a star in both baseball and track. His skills quickly caught the eye of professional teams.
Starting His Baseball Journey
In 1935, when he was just 19 years old, Johnny Taylor joined the New York Cubans. This was a famous team in the Negro Leagues. He quickly showed everyone how good he was at pitching.
A Special Game and All-Star Moment
One of Johnny's most amazing games happened in 1937. He pitched a "no-hitter" against a team led by the legendary Satchel Paige. A no-hitter means the other team didn't get any hits! This big game took place at the Polo Grounds, a very famous baseball stadium in New York City.
His excellent playing earned him a spot in the East–West All-Star Game in 1938. This was a special game where the best players from the Negro Leagues competed against each other. Johnny pitched two innings in that game and didn't let the other team score any runs.
Playing for Different Teams
After his time with the New York Cubans, Johnny also played for other teams. He briefly joined the Newark Eagles in 1940. He was known for his strong arm and smart pitching.
Serving His Country
From 1942 to 1944, Johnny Taylor took a break from baseball. He joined the U.S. Army to serve his country during World War II. After his service, he returned to play for the New York Cubans for two more seasons. He continued to be a valuable player for his team.
Later Life
Johnny Taylor passed away in his hometown of Hartford, Connecticut, in 1987. He was 71 years old. He is remembered as an important player in the history of the Negro Leagues.
