Stories of Black baseball

Stories that highlight the lives and experiences of Black ballplayers through key moments in history, artifacts and baseball cards.

Featured Story

Doby blazed trails on, off field

On June 30, 1978, Larry Doby became the second Black manager in AL/HL history.

Cubs’ Williams hits for the cycle

When Billy Williams hit for the cycle on July 17, 1966, he became the first Cubs player to achieve the feat in nine seasons.

#Shortstops: Cool Bat

After swinging this 38-ounce bat, Cool Papa Bell would impact games with his speed.

Bats from Black baseball stars tell incredible stories in Cooperstown

A trio of game-used bats loaned by Al Jurgela share the Black baseball experiences of Martín Dihigo, Josh Gibson and Pete Hill.

Gibson's powerful swing through Puerto Rico showcased in The Souls of the Game

The legendary catcher earned this award, currently on loan from the Josh Gibson Foundation, as the top player in the 1941-42 Puerto Rican Winter League.

Mays’ Candlestick Park locker a priceless addition to Hall of Fame

Thanks to a generous donation from Steve Mariucci, the locker used by Willie Mays in San Francisco now finds a permanent home in Cooperstown.

Willie Mays redefined what was possible on diamond

Willie Mays, the “Say Hey Kid,” excelled in all phases of the game with a boyish enthusiasm and infectious exuberance.

Seventy-five years later, Robinson remains most valuable

Jackie Robinson won the National League Most Valuable Player Award in his third season in the league in 1949.

Willie Mays' Hall of Fame Plaque Makes Historic Journey to Rickwood Field

Class of 1979 legend celebrated as plaque travels from Cooperstown for first time.

Winfield skips over minor leagues to debut for Padres

Just weeks after San Diego made him the fourth pick in the 1973 MLB Draft, Dave Winfield bypassed the minor leagues entirely to start his Hall of Fame career.

Museum welcomes SABR’s Jerry Malloy Negro Leagues Conference

SABR's 24th annual Jerry Malloy Negro League Conference was held for the first time this year in Cooperstown.

Museum’s new The Souls of the Game exhibit debuts to rave reviews

Told through a groundbreaking new perspective, The Souls of the Game: Voices of Black Baseball uses quotes and interviews dating back to 19th century trailblazers through current big league stars.

Stories of Black Baseball Experience to be Heard for All Time through The Souls of the Game

Newest Museum exhibit opens as Hall of Fame celebrates inclusive chronicle of National Pastime.

Standing Tall: Hank Aaron statue debut brings stars to Cooperstown

Dedicated on May 23, 2024, a statue of Hank Aaron titled ‘Keep Swinging’ will pay tribute to the legendary Hall of Famer.

Museum Debuts Statue of Hall of Famer Henry Aaron

Bronze likeness created by famed sculptor William Behrends entitled ‘Keep Swinging’ unveiled at base of Grand Staircase.

#Shortstops: Give Watson a Ring

Bob Watson's contributions as a pioneering Black executive and world champion are showcased in The Souls of the Game: Voices of Black Baseball.

O’Neil makes history as Cubs coach

Buck O'Neil was the first Black on-field coach in AL/NL history, debuting in the Chicago Cubs dugout in May 1962.