Negro Leagues Baseball Museum establishes ‘Hall of Game’ tribute to former MLB stars
The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum recently announced the establishment of the “Hall of Game,” a tribute to former Major League Baseball stars who played the game with the same passion, determination, flair and skill exhibited by the heroes of the Negro Leagues. The celebrated announcement was made February 13, 2014, in ceremonies held at the NLBM on the 94th birthday of the Negro Leagues.
Four baseball legends form the museum’s inaugural Hall of Game class: Lou Brock, Joe Morgan, Dave Winfield and the late, great Roberto Clemente. The much-anticipated induction ceremonies are planned for 8 p.m. on Saturday, April 12, 2014, at the Gem Theater in Kansas City, MO.
Hall of Game inductees will also receive permanent recognition as part of the future Buck O’Neil Education and Research Center being developed by the NLBM at the site of the Paseo YMCA, the birthplace of the Negro Leagues. On Feb. 13, 1920, Andrew “Rube” Foster established the Negro National League in a meeting held at the Paseo YMCA.
“This is truly a historic and proud day as we continue our efforts to celebrate the heritage of baseball,” said SABR member Bob Kendrick, President of the NLBM.
“The Hall of Game celebrates both the style and substance of the Negro Leagues which represented professional baseball at its absolute finest. Our inaugural class of Major League inductees were all, in their unique ways, connected to the Negro Leagues experience. Their play was reflective and reminiscent of that common thread and we’re delighted to welcome them into the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum,” Kendrick said.
The Hall of Game will annually honor former Major Leaguers who best exemplified the spirit and signature style of play that made Negro Leagues baseball a fan favorite. Or, in the words of O’Neil: “You couldn’t go to the concession stands because you might miss something you’ve never seen before!”
The induction event will take place at the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum and the Gem Theater in the historic 18th & Vine District in Kansas City. The day’s festivities will include a press conference, VIP meet-and-greet, reception and dinner at the NLBM followed by the Hall of Game ceremonies at the Gem Theater. Hy-Vee is the presenting sponsor of the event.
For more information, visit www.nlbm.com and follow the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum on Twitter @nlbmprez.
Originally published: February 27, 2014. Last Updated: February 27, 2014.