Chris Jensen’s meticulously researched book sheds new light on the tragedies in Black baseball history.

Tragedy in Black Baseball: Early Deaths of 136 Negro Leaguers, 1871-1950 by Chris Jensen

Since my days working as an usher and ticket taker at Busch Stadium, I’ve often wondered why there weren’t many Black players in the game. I regularly saw Latinos, Dominicans, Puerto Ricans, and whites, but Black players seemed few and far between.

As I grew older, I began to notice more Black players like Ozzie Smith, Ray Lankford, and Willie McGee earning their recognition. I also became curious about Cool Papa Bell and the street in St. Louis named after him. That curiosity led me to discover the rich history of the Negro Baseball League. In 2018, I visited the Negro League Baseball Museum in Kansas City, Missouri, and I’ve heard discussions about St. Louis getting its own museum as well.

Recently, I came across a book by Chris Jensen titled Tragedy in Black Baseball. It offers a deeply researched and moving account of players, pioneers, and untold stories from that era. Let’s explore this book together, and later on, you’ll have the chance to review it for yourself.

 In Tragedy in Black Baseball: Early Deaths of 136 Negro Leaguers, 1871-1950, author Chris Jensen presents a compelling and meticulously researched historical work that sheds light on the lives and untimely deaths of 136 Negro League players, managers, and executives. Through detailed profiles, Jensen brings long-overlooked stories into focus, honoring individuals whose contributions to the game and society deserve lasting recognition.

The book highlights a wide range of figures, from Hall of Famers such as Josh Gibson and Rube Foster to celebrated players like Rap Dixon, Bill Monroe, Ted Trent, and Frank Warfield. Alongside these well-known names, Jensen also includes lesser-known individuals, ensuring that their stories are preserved and shared. Each profile offers insight not only into their athletic achievements, but also into the circumstances surrounding their lives and deaths.

What makes this work especially significant is its unflinching examination of the social and historical realities these individuals faced. Many of the stories reflect the harsh conditions of their time, including violence, discrimination, and systemic injustice. Jensen recounts powerful accounts such as Octavius Catto, a pioneering player and civil rights activist who was assassinated in 1871; Fred Goree, who was killed by a police officer in 1925; and James Bowens, who was lynched in 1895. These narratives provide a sobering reminder of the challenges faced by Black athletes in an era of segregation.

Beyond its historical detail, the book serves as a tribute to resilience and passion. Despite being barred from Major League Baseball due to racial discrimination, these players demonstrated extraordinary dedication to the sport and to their communities. Their love for the game endured even in the face of adversity, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire.

Jensen’s work reflects a commitment to uncovering and preserving important history. By combining thorough research with respectful storytelling, he offers readers a meaningful and impactful exploration of a critical chapter in baseball and American history.

This book will appeal to readers interested in sports history, social justice, and biographical storytelling. It provides both educational value and emotional depth, making it a significant contribution to the understanding of the Negro Leagues and their enduring legacy.

In closing this is a compelling take on some great legends in the game, that time may have forgotten. I am hoping Mr. Jensen’s books shed some light and open up new doors of discovery.

The book is now available—secure your copy here: https://a.co/d/0brIM36K

Chris Jensen
BrightKey PR


#NegroLeagues #BlackBaseball #BaseballHistory #NegroLeaguesHistory #AfricanAmericanAthletes #BaseballTragedy #BlackBaseball #SportsHistory #NegroLeaguePlayers #HistoryMatters

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Senior Editor, Digital Manager, Blogger, has been nominated for awards several times as Publisher and Author over the years. Has been with company for almost three years and is a current native St. Louisan.

The Newsletter 05

Senior Editor, Digital Manager, Blogger, has been nominated for awards several times as Publisher and Author over the years. Has been with company for almost three years and is a current native St. Louisan.

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