And so, as this save enters into the post-integration phase of history, it's quite poignant that four of the biggest NeL names are all calling time on their careers.
I get quite emotional about this, as their presence signifies my own journey with regard to learning about the Negro Leagues and their wonderful, tragic heroes. I knew next to nothing about them when I started this save - and still do, at least compared to all there is to know. But my journey in this regard continues, even as these legendary-bordering-on-mythical players disappear from view.
Josh Gibson
At 37, it was the all-but-disappearance of his defensive ratings that spelt the end for Josh. He still hit 329 in limited appearances for the Tigers this year, but with no DH in the end those opportunities becoming more difficult to procure. 92 bWAR, a lifetime 308 BA, 352 career HR, 3 Wagner-Lajoie Medals and 3 Championship wins should earn him a plaque in five years' time without any problems at all. Our organisation has retired his #16 to honour the 9 seasons he spent with us as part of that legendary late 1930s-early 1940s group.
Willie Wells
Another one-time Buc,
El Diablo should join his buddy Josh in Cooperstown first time around, one would think. Willie has enjoyed one of the longest careers I can remember, joining the league way back in 1924 and playing thru his age-42 season in 1947. There were no takers for him this year, and he retires third in all-time ABs with 11281, 5th in runs with 1853, 5th in hits with 3180, 7th in total bases with 4962, 3rd with 611 doubles, as well as amassing 303 HR, 1623 RBI and a colossal 110 bWAR or near enough to.
Not sure either
Buck Leonard or
Ray Dandridge will get to C-Town, but both can still be extremely proud of their achievements in the game.