Indianapolis (Wish) — Indianapolis Indians strike diamonds to honor a special part of the city’s baseball history. They are nearing the end of the six-day homestand and are preparing to go out into the field in vintage jerseys and shine the spotlight. Negro league..
Organizers say this is an important part of history, a chance to remember a black player who was able to break into Major League Baseball, as well as a chance to honor a player who has never had that chance.
When you love the game, even separation can’t break it. That was true for hundreds of Negro League players. Nevertheless, countless players have solidified their position in history.
“But it’s also an opportunity for others, such as Jackie Robinson, Satchel Paige, and Hank Aaron, to learn about the Negro League. All the celebrities you see in baseball started in the Negro League,” said Clarence Bellamy.
He and his wife, Diana Bellamy, married 52 years ago. And early on, both were drawn to the thrill of Negro League baseball. So they felt that the same excitement of learning Indianapolis Indians would pay homage to past players.
“So I wanted to see what this would look like, so I’m here today with the ticket I just bought,” Diane said.
The first Negro League, formed in the 1920s, was a time when black players were not allowed to play in minor and major leagues. Indianapolis ABC played in the first game, and a few years later the Indianapolis Crown appeared.
Cheyne Reiter of Indianapolis Indians said:
Current Indianapolis Indian players will be on the field on Saturday night wearing vintage clown jerseys. Throughout the game, the facts of the Negro League, which spotlighted ABCS and clowns, are displayed throughout the screen of the field. Old photos and artifacts will also be displayed on the screen.
“For the guys who got the chance in Major League Baseball, I was able to continue many times. [Oscar] Charleston didn’t have a chance, but he was one of the best, “said Reiter. “They said he was a blend of Babe Ruth, Willie Mays, and Honus Wagner.”
Bellamys says fans often still have to sit apart when baseball is integrated. Now they have the right to experience the game and immerse it in everything.
“Now we have the opportunity to sit in the front row and see everything,” Diane said.
Source: www.wishtv.com
