The Negro League Baseball Fact For Today - John Henry Russell

In celebration of Black History Month, here is Today’s Negro League Baseball History Fact:  John Henry Russell

Although primarily a second baseman, John Henry Russell’s versatility gave him the ability to also play first base, third base, or shortstop during his 12 year Negro League baseball career (1923 – 1934).  Born February 24, 1898 in Dolcito, Alabama, he gained the reputation of being excellent on defense by using quick hands and feet combined with a strong throwing arm.  He did not consistently have a high batting average, but his speed made him a better than average base runner. 

After starting his career with the Memphis Red Sox, Russell played with the St. Louis Stars (1926 – 1930).  He paired with Hall of Fame shortstop Willie Wells for the Stars to have one of the best double play partners in the Negro Leagues during that time.  St. Louis, who also had Hall of Fame center fielder James “Cool Papa” Bell and Hall of Fame first baseman George “Mule” Suttles, won the Negro National League championship in 1928 and 1930.

While with the Pittsburgh Crawfords (1931 – 1933), Russell received honor from Negro League fans by being selected to play in the inaugural East-West All Star Game.  On that September 10^Th at Chicago’s Comiskey Park, Russell shared the field with such Negro League greats as Satchel Paige, Oscar Charleston, and others.  

Negro League baseball is not just a part of African American history, but is woven into the fabric of 20^Th Century American history.


To read more about the Negro League baseball era Last Train To Cooperstown