Sunday, April 10, 2005

Negro Leagues legacy fades

Enthusiasts worry that as players from that era die, a piece of history will be lost.

By Rob Parker / The Detroit News

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If Major League Baseball is troubled by the declining involvement of African-Americans, those who appreciate the rich legacy of blacks in the game are distraught.

There's fear that as players from the Negro Leagues die, so will its memory.

"Yes, it's going to die," said James "Bullet" Moore, who played for the Detroit Stars (1937-39). "Even though you see some people wearing the old Negro League jerseys, there doesn't seem to be an overall interest from casual fans and Major League Baseball to keep alive the history of the Negro League."

The Negro National League was formed in 1920. Rival leagues quickly followed. The leagues boasted a high level of professional skill and became centerpieces for economic development in the black community.

Jim Stapleton, a former Tigers executive, tried to ensure Detroit didn't forget about the Negro Leagues. While with the Tigers, Stapleton helped organize Negro League weekend at Comerica Park, a celebration of the men who played.

"One of the things that was so important about Negro League weekend is that it profiled players who really started this game," he said.

"Blacks aren't playing this game anymore. There's no connection with the history. There's no connection with Willie Horton, let alone Turkey Stearns."

Moore, 85, said he would be willing to do his part to let young people know about the long connection blacks have with baseball.

"I would love to speak to kids and young adults to try and educate and preserve our legacy," Moore said. "We need younger people to understand the impact of Negro League baseball and the impact it had in the overall history of Major League Baseball."