Monte Irvin
| Birthdate | 2/25/1919 |
| Death Date | 1/11/2016 |
| Debut Year | 1949 |
| Year of Induction | 1973 |
| Teams | Cubs, Giants, Negro Leagues |
| Position | Left Field |
An outstanding Negro League player for the Newark Eagles, Monte Irvin was among the first wave of African-Americans in the Major Leagues.
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Many believed Monte Irvin would break the color barrier
Many believed Monte Irvin would break the color barrier
Many believed Monte Irvin would become the first to break baseball’s color barrier. No less an authority than HoFer Effa Manley owner of Irvin’s Newark Eagles has this to say, “Monte was the choice of all Negro National and American League club owners to serve as the No. 1 player to join a white major league team.”
Though Irvin did not join the big leagues until two years after Jackie Robinson’s debut, he made his presence felt. As a Major Leaguer, Irvin earned a World Series ring after playing in both the 1951 and 1954 Fall Classics.
The former All Star also led the league in runs batted in during the 1951 campaign. He was rewarded for his efforts in the Negro and Major Leagues by his induction into Cooperstown in 1973.
In the collection is a handwritten letter to Hall of Fame sportswriter Joe Reichler who gained fame as editor of the baseball encyclopedia.
Cooperstown opened its doors to Irvin in the summer of '73
Cooperstown opened its doors to Irvin in the summer of '73
In this handwritten letter from January 10, 1992 Monte Irvin writes about his career and induction to the Hall of Fame.
“When I was a youngster I did not have the luxury of dreaming to play in the Major Leagues, much less becoming a Hall of Famer. When it finally happened in 1973 it was the greatest thrill and achievement in sports.”
The rest of the letter has equally fine content and is worth the read.
Irvin served as a PR specialist in the office of the commissioner from 1968-84
Irvin served as a PR specialist in the office of the commissioner from 1968-84
Always a great ambassador of the game, Monte Irvin served in the Commissioner’s Office as a public relations specialist from 1968-1984. After he stepped down and retired to Florida, Irvin accepted an MLB role involving special projects and appearances.
Irvin had a role in baseball for his entire adult life. For many years he willingly corresponded with fans through the mail. Here he responds to a fan’s letter saying, “You’re a great fan. I wish there were more like you.”
