On May 29, 2024, the Negro Leagues records for more than 2300 players were incorporated into MLB’s statistics. Only then did Josh Gibson’s incredible .372 batting average surpass Ty Cobb’s “record” of .367. The inclusion of formerly excluded players in the MLB’s statistics mean that Gibson’s .974 slugging percentage in 1937 is now the season record.
The Negro Leagues were created because of the racist practices of the MLB, which for over 50 years did not allow non-white players. Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in 1947. 2024’s statistical change has been a long time coming for Negro League players.
Is it ever too late to right a wrong?
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