Satchel Paige
Inducted:
1971
Player Details
6-3, 180lb (190cm, 81kg)
Born:
July 7, 1906
Mobile, Alabama, U.S.
Died:
June 8, 1982
Kansas City, Missouri, U.S.
Position:
Pitcher
College:
NA
Satchel Paige is widely regarded as one of the greatest pitchers in baseball history, whose legendary career spanned both the Negro Leagues and Major League Baseball. Known for his blazing fastball, pinpoint control, and unmatched charisma, Paige dominated opponents for decades, often dazzling fans with his showmanship and competitive fire. Before joining MLB, he built his reputation as a star in the Negro Leagues, where he became an icon for his longevity and talent.
At age 42, Paige made his MLB debut with the Cleveland Indians in 1948, helping them win the World Series. He later pitched for the St. Louis Browns and Kansas City Athletics, remaining effective well into his late 40s and beyond. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1971 as the first Negro Leagues player honored, Paige’s influence on the game transcended statistics, paving the way for generations of Black players. His legacy endures as a symbol of excellence, perseverance, and love for baseball.
Paige's Awards and Records
- 2× MLB All-Star (1952, 1953)
- 6× Negro league All-Star (1933–1934, 1936, 1941–1943)
- World Series champion (1948)
- Negro World Series champion (1942)
- Cleveland Indians Hall of Fame
MLB Records
- Oldest Major League Baseball player in history
- First Black Pitcher in American League History (1948)
MLB Teams:
Cleveland Indians (1948–1949)
St. Louis Browns (1951–1953)
Kansas City Athletics (1965)
MLB Stats
Game Pitched:
403
Game Started:
198
Win–Loss Record:
124-82
Earned Run Average (ERA):
2.74
Strikeouts:
1,484
Innings Pitched:
1,751.2
Saves:
44