Tom Cooper (baseball) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Tom Cooper |
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| Catcher | |||
| Born: January 17, 1927 Kansas City, Missouri |
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| Died: October 9, 1985 (aged 58) Arlington, Texas |
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| debut | |||
| 1947, for the Kansas City Monarchs | |||
| Last appearance | |||
| 1952, for the Kansas City Monarchs | |||
| Teams | |||
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Thomas Roger Cooper (born January 17, 1927 – died October 9, 1985) was an American baseball player. He was a professional catcher who played in two different baseball leagues. He played in the Negro Leagues and also in the minor leagues.
From 1947 to 1952, he played for the Kansas City Monarchs in the Negro Leagues. Later, he joined the Philadelphia Phillies' minor league teams. He played for the Schenectady Blue Jays in 1953 and 1957. He also played for the Trois-Rivieres Phillies in 1954.
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Tom Cooper: A Baseball Player
Tom Cooper was born in Kansas City, Missouri. He grew up loving baseball. He became a professional baseball player. He played the position of catcher. A catcher is a player who squats behind home plate. They catch pitches and help direct the game.
Cooper was known for being able to bat from both sides of the plate. This is called being a "switch-hitter." He also threw the ball with his right hand.
Playing in the Negro Leagues
The Negro Leagues were professional baseball leagues. They were formed for African-American players. This was because, for many years, Black players were not allowed to play in Major League Baseball. The Negro Leagues had many talented players.
Tom Cooper played for the Kansas City Monarchs. This was one of the most famous teams in the Negro Leagues. He played with them for six seasons. He was a Monarch from 1947 to 1952. Playing in the Negro Leagues was a big part of his career.
Moving to the Minor Leagues
After his time in the Negro Leagues, Tom Cooper moved to the minor leagues. Minor leagues are like training grounds for Major League Baseball. Players in the minor leagues hope to eventually play in the big leagues.
Cooper played in the minor league system for the Philadelphia Phillies. He played for two different teams. In 1953 and 1957, he played for the Schenectady Blue Jays. In 1954, he played for the Trois-Rivieres Phillies. These teams helped him continue his baseball journey.
Later Life
Tom Cooper passed away on October 9, 1985. He was 58 years old. He died in Arlington, Texas. His career showed his love for baseball. He played during an important time in baseball history.
