Monte Irvin
Inducted:
1973
Player Details
6-1, 195lb (185cm, 88kg)
Born:
February 25, 1919
Haleburg, Alabama, U.S.
Died:
January 11, 2016
Houston, Texas, U.S.
Position:
Left fielder
College:
Lincoln University
Monte Irvin was one of baseball’s most dynamic outfielders, bridging the Negro Leagues and Major League Baseball with outstanding talent and leadership. He began his career with the Newark Eagles, helping them win the Negro League World Series in 1946 before joining the New York Giants in 1949. Known for his powerful hitting, speed, and strong defensive skills, Irvin quickly became a key contributor, earning National League All-Star honors three times.
His ability to hit for both average and power, combined with excellent base running, made him one of the league’s most versatile and feared players. Irvin played a central role in the Giants’ 1954 World Series championship, cementing his reputation as a clutch performer. Recognized for his contributions on and off the field, he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1973.
Monte Irvin’s career stands as a testament to talent, perseverance, and the breaking of baseball’s color barrier.
Irvin's Award and Record:
- 4x NgL All-Star (1941, 1946–1948)
- MLB All-Star (1952)
- Negro World Series champion (1946)
- World Series champion (1954)
- 3× Negro National League batting champion (1940, 1941, 1946)
- NL RBI leader (1951)
MLB Records:
- Key figure in breaking baseball’s color barrier
- Versatile hitter with both power and speed
- Strong defensive outfielder and base runner
- Played a central role in Giants’ 1954 World Series win
MLB Teams:
New York Giants (1949–1955)
Chicago Cubs (1956)
Number Worn:
20
MLB Stats:
Seasons:
10 (1949–1956)
Games Played:
959
Hits:
1,076
Batting Average:
.305
Home Runs:
139
RBIs:
684
Runs Scored:
580
Stolen Bases:
52
Career OPS:
.883