MLB Officially Incorporates Negro Leagues Statistics Into Historical Records

Major League Baseball made a historic move by officially integrating Negro Leagues statistics into its historical records, paying tribute to the forgotten talents of the past. The three-year research project culminated in the recognition of over 2,300 players who competed in seven leagues between 1920-1948. This incorporation marks a significant shift in acknowledging a crucial era in baseball history.

The legendary Josh Gibson, often revered for his outstanding performance, emerged as a key figure in this historical revision. By surpassing Ty Cobb in career batting average, Babe Ruth in slugging percentage, and OPS, Gibson’s legacy now stands prominently in the annals of baseball history as a record-breaking player of his time.

Commissioner Rob Manfred lauded this initiative, emphasizing the importance of honoring the Negro Leagues players and their pivotal role in paving the way for Jackie Robinson‘s groundbreaking debut with the Dodgers in 1947. It signifies a crucial step in bridging the gaps in American history and celebrating the diverse talents that enriched the sport.

The statistical updates reveal a new dawn for Negro Leagues players, positioning Gibson as the pinnacle of excellence with remarkable records in batting average, slugging percentage, and OPS. His astounding achievements now solidify him not just as a standout Negro Leagues player but as one of the all-time greats in baseball history.

Josh Gibson’s family welcomes this overdue recognition, hoping that his contributions will reshape the narrative of baseball history. The call to rename the MVP award in Gibson’s honor, replacing a symbol of segregation, echoes the sentiment of rewriting history to reflect the true essence of the game and the players who shaped it.

The celebration of the Negro Leagues’ centennial in the 2020 season set the stage for this momentous integration, highlighting the resilience and brilliance of the players who thrived in adversity. As the statistics of yesteryear resurface, a new chapter in baseball history unfolds, with names like Gibson, Cobb, Ruth, and Robinson now intertwined in a unified legacy.