William Ross (baseball) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids William Ross |
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| Pitcher | |||
| Born: October 5, 1893 Corrigan, Texas |
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| Died: December 22, 1964 (aged 71) Diboll, Texas |
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| debut | |||
| 1922, for the Indianapolis ABCs | |||
| Last appearance | |||
| 1930, for the Homestead Grays | |||
| Teams | |||
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William West Ross (born October 5, 1893 – died December 22, 1964) was a talented American baseball player. He was known by his nickname "Nacogdoches". William Ross played as a pitcher in the Negro leagues from 1922 to 1930.
He was born in Corrigan, Texas. Ross started his professional baseball career in 1922 with the Indianapolis ABCs. Over his career, he played for several teams. These included the Washington Potomacs, St. Louis Stars, Detroit Stars, and Cleveland Tigers. He finished his time in baseball with the Homestead Grays in 1929 and 1930. William Ross passed away in Diboll, Texas when he was 71 years old.
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Who Was William Ross?
William West Ross was an important baseball player during a time when professional baseball was segregated. This meant that African American players could not play in the major leagues with white players. Instead, they played in their own leagues, known as the Negro leagues. Ross was a pitcher, which is the player who throws the baseball to the batter.
William Ross's Early Life
William Ross was born in a small town called Corrigan, Texas. Not much is known about his early life. However, like many young people, he likely developed a love for baseball. He grew up during a time when baseball was becoming very popular across the United States.
Playing in the Negro Leagues
The Negro leagues were professional baseball leagues for African American players. They existed from the late 1800s until the late 1940s. These leagues were full of incredibly skilled players like William Ross. They played exciting games and had many fans.
Ross began his career in 1922 with the Indianapolis ABCs. This team was one of the well-known teams in the Negro leagues. Playing for them was a big step for any young player.
Ross's Teams and Journey
During his career, William Ross played for several different teams. Each team was part of the rich history of the Negro leagues.
- In 1923, he played for the Washington Potomacs.
- From 1924 to 1926, he was a pitcher for the St. Louis Stars.
- In 1927, he joined the Detroit Stars.
- The year 1928 saw him playing for the Cleveland Tigers.
- He finished his career with the Homestead Grays in 1929 and 1930. The Grays were one of the most famous and successful teams in the Negro leagues.
William Ross's Legacy
William Ross was part of a special group of athletes. These players kept professional baseball alive for African Americans during a challenging time. Their skills and dedication helped pave the way for future generations. Even though they faced many difficulties, they played with passion and talent. Ross's career from 1922 to 1930 shows his commitment to the sport he loved. He passed away in Diboll, Texas, in 1964.
