Judy Johnson
Inducted:
1975
Player Details
5-11, 150lb (180cm, 68kg)
Born:
October 26, 1899
Snow Hill, Maryland, U.S.
Died:
June 15, 1989
Wilmington, Delaware, U.S.
Position:
Third baseman
Shortstop
College:
NA
Judy Johnson, born October 26, 1899, in Snow Hill, Maryland, was one of the greatest third basemen in Negro League history. Famous for his flawless defense and quick instincts, he set the standard for the position with smooth glove work and a strong, accurate arm. Johnson played primarily for the Hilldale Club, later joining powerhouse teams like the Homestead Grays and Pittsburgh Crawfords, where he shared the field with some of the era’s greatest stars.
A reliable contact hitter, he consistently posted batting averages near or above .300, delivering clutch performances that helped his clubs remain perennial contenders. Known as a natural leader, he captained teams to success and earned respect across the league for his discipline and baseball intelligence. After retiring, he served as a scout, mentoring young talent and influencing the integration era. Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1975, Johnson is remembered as a defensive master and one of the game’s finest leaders.
Johnson's Awards and Records:
- 2× All-Star (1933, 1936)
- Negro World Series champion (1925)
- Team captain and mentor to younger players
Notable Achievements:
- Key leader of Hilldale’s 1925 championship team
- Set the standard for defensive excellence at third base in the Negro Leagues
- Widely regarded as the greatest defensive third baseman of the Negro Leagues
- Influenced integration-era baseball as a scout, discovering future MLB talent
Career Teams:
Hilldale Club (1921–1929, 1931–1932)
Homestead Grays (1929–1930, 1937)
Pittsburgh Crawfords (1932–1936)
New York Cubans (1936)
Number Worn:
46
MLB Stats:
Career:
1921–1936
Games Played:
709
Batting Average:
.304
Hits:
809
Home Runs:
25
Runs:
467
RBIs:
457