History That Doesn't Suck – Episode 166: A Conversation on Negro Leagues Baseball History with Bob Kendrick

Host: Prof. Greg Jackson
Co-Host: Riley Neubauer
Guest: Bob Kendrick, President of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum (NLBM)
Release Date: September 30, 2024

Introduction

In this compelling bonus episode of History That Doesn't Suck (HTDS), hosts Prof. Greg Jackson and Riley Neubauer delve deep into the rich history of Negro Leagues Baseball with Bob Kendrick, the President of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City, Missouri. This episode not only explores the profound impact of the Negro Leagues on American society but also sheds light on ongoing efforts to preserve and honor this pivotal chapter in baseball history.

The Shift from Integrated to Segregated Baseball

Key Discussion Points:

• The transition from integrated to segregated baseball leagues in the late 19th century.
• The role of prominent figures like Moses Fleetwood Walker and Cap Anson in enforcing segregation.
• The absence of formal written segregation policies, relying instead on "gentleman's agreements."

Notable Quotes:

• Bob Kendrick [06:33]: "Segregation was becoming even more prevalent than it had been and it was affecting our so-called national pastime."
• Greg Jackson [07:22]: "There was no written doctrine of any kind. This was just a verbalized agreement that essentially said if you allow a black to play with you, you can't play with us."

Economic Barriers and the Role of Money

Key Discussion Points:

• Major League Baseball (MLB) owners' resistance to integrating leagues, primarily driven by financial interests.
• The substantial revenue Negro Leagues generated for MLB teams through stadium rentals and concessions.
• Bob Kendrick emphasizes the centrality of money in the decision to maintain segregation: "Anytime they say it ain't about the money, it is. It's always about the money."

Notable Quotes:

• Riley Neubauer [19:06]: "Yes, and as you said, Bob, it's always about the money."
• Greg Jackson [21:10]: "Anytime they say it ain't about the money, it is. It's always about the money."

Impact of World War II on Integration Efforts

Key Discussion Points:

• The influence of World War II on changing attitudes towards segregation in America.
• The paradox of African American soldiers fighting for a country that still enforced racial discrimination.
• Branch Rickey's strategic efforts to integrate MLB, leading to Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier.

Notable Quotes:

• Greg Jackson [08:57]: "If you were going to point to one single event that helped usher in integration in Major League Baseball, it would have been World War II."

Legacy and Community Impact of the Negro Leagues

Key Discussion Points:

• The Negro Leagues as a source of immense pride within the African American community.
• The socio-economic ripple effects of the leagues, fostering black-owned businesses and strengthening community bonds.
• The bittersweet decline of the Negro Leagues with MLB integration, leading to the diminishment of black economic hubs.

Notable Quotes:

• Greg Jackson [33:04]: "The Negro Leagues didn't care what color you were. They didn't care what gender you were. Do you have something to offer? That's the way it is supposed to be."
• Riley Neubauer [43:54]: "Yeah, bittersweet is the only word to describe that, isn't it?"

Global Influence and Enduring Legacy

Key Discussion Points:

• The Negro Leagues' pioneering tours, including the 1927 exhibition series in Japan, which significantly influenced Japanese professional baseball.
• The comparison between Negro League players and contemporary international stars like Ichiro Suzuki, highlighting the universal challenges athletes face when breaking barriers.
• The enduring camaraderie and mutual respect between past and present baseball legends.

Notable Quotes:

• Greg Jackson [36:48]: "The Negro Leagues took this game to all parts of the globe. They would go into Canada, barnstorming their way into Canada... They were touring a team that would make their way to Japan in 1927."
• Bob Kendrick [38:43]: "Exactly. It's amazing that they became somewhat of stars and icons for the entirety of America, but also for the world."

Preservation Efforts and the Future of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum

Key Discussion Points:

• The growth of the NLBM from a one-room office to a major cultural institution.
• The ongoing "Pitch for the Future" campaign aimed at raising $30 million to expand the museum and honor its legacy appropriately.
• The integration of Negro Leagues history into modern platforms, including Major League Baseball statistics and popular video games like MLB The Show.

Notable Quotes:

• Greg Jackson [45:16]: "The campaign is called Pitch for the Future... We need to raise some $30 million to build this new home."
• Greg Jackson [50:01]: "We have a five-year partnership with Sony PlayStation for that inclusion of the Negro Leagues which we debuted in the '23 version of the game."

Celebratory Events and Modern Recognition

Key Discussion Points:

• The significance of commemorative events, such as the MLB game at Rickwood Field, a historic Negro Leagues stadium.
• The emotional impact of honoring legends like Willie Mays and fostering new connections with international stars.
• The role of media partnerships in bringing Negro Leagues history to a broader, younger audience.

Notable Quotes:

• Greg Jackson [27:28]: "It was one of the most magical events, and particularly baseball events that I've ever been involved with."
• Greg Jackson [51:02]: "It's just exciting to see all of these revelations that are happening in and around Negro Leagues baseball history."

Conclusion and Call to Action

Prof. Greg Jackson and Riley Neubauer conclude the episode by emphasizing the importance of preserving Negro Leagues history and encouraging listeners to support the NLBM's expansion. They highlight the enduring legacy of the Negro Leagues in shaping not only baseball but also American society's broader cultural and economic landscape.

Final Notable Quotes:

• Greg Jackson [48:13]: "Absolutely. So there is no number that is too small. And of course, there is no dollar number that is too large."
• Riley Neubauer [51:18]: "Well, my friends, that wraps up this bonus episode. If you'd like more, head over to htdspodcast.com and become a Premium member..."

Supporting the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum

Listeners are encouraged to support the NLBM's "Pitch for the Future" campaign by making charitable contributions online at www.nlbm.com under the donation tab. Every contribution, no matter the size, brings the museum closer to its goal of creating a state-of-the-art facility that honors the legacy and impact of the Negro Leagues.

Produced by: Dawson McCraw
Editorial Assistance by: Riley Neubauer
Production: Airship
Sound Design: Molly Bach
Theme Music Composed by: Greg Jackson
Arrangement and Additional Composition: Lindsey Graham with Airship

For more information, visit htdspodcast.com.