Sam Jethroe 2001 Deaths

Sam Jethroe

Age: 83

one of the first black players in Major League Baseball history and the oldest player to ever win rookie of the year honors; nicknamed "The Jet" for his speed; debuted in 1950 with the Boston Braves, earning rookie honors at age 32 for batting .273 with 18 HRs, 58 RBI and 35 stolen bases; played with Boston through 1952 and two games with Pittsburgh in 1954; led the N.L. in stolen bases twice; played in the Negro Leagues and minor league baseball before and after his pro career. He died of a heart attack.

Died: Erie, Penn., June 16

Tove JanssonG - LJ. J. Johnson
2001 Deaths: G - L