Reclaimed: The Forgotten League, Episode 5 – The Hall
Host: Vanessa Ivy Rose | Release Date: October 23, 2023 | Produced by ABC News
Introduction: Revisiting Cooperstown’s Legacy
In "Reclaimed: The Forgotten League," host Vanessa Ivy Rose delves deep into the intricate history of Negro League baseball and its quest for recognition within the National Baseball Hall of Fame. This episode, titled "The Hall," not only recounts the historical marginalization of African American baseball players but also personalizes the struggle through the poignant story of Rose’s grandfather, Norman Thomas Stearns, affectionately known as "Turkey."
The National Baseball Hall of Fame: An Overview
Cooperstown, New York, often regarded as baseball’s spiritual home, houses both the prestigious National Baseball Hall of Fame list and its accompanying museum. As Rose explains, the Hall of Fame is both a physical space filled with iconic memorabilia and a symbolic representation of baseball's greatest talents. The Hall's influence extended beyond its walls, shaping the legacy and recognition of players, umpires, managers, and executives since its inception in 1936.
Historical Exclusion of Negro League Players
Despite the Hall of Fame’s role in celebrating baseball legends, Negro League players were conspicuously absent for decades. This exclusion was partly due to the stringent eligibility criteria, which required a minimum of ten years in the major leagues—criteria that disproportionately affected Negro League players who were often past their prime by the time integration began.
Vanessa highlights a pivotal moment in 1966 when Ted Williams, a revered Red Sox legend, inducted into the Hall, made a groundbreaking statement:
“I hope that someday the names of Satchel Page and Josh Gibson in some way can be added as a symbol of the great Negro players that are not here only because they were not given a chance.”
— Ted Williams [05:30]
This plea underscored the growing acknowledgment of the Negro Leagues' significance, yet systemic barriers remained entrenched.
Pioneers Advocating for Inclusion: Buck O'Neil’s Role
Buck O'Neil emerged as a central figure in the fight to recognize Negro League players. As a former Kansas City Monarchs first baseman and the first African American coach in the major leagues, O'Neil leveraged his position to advocate for the inclusion of his peers. He served on various committees and tirelessly pushed for rule changes within the Veterans Committee—the body responsible for Hall of Fame inductions outside the traditional Baseball Writers Association of America (BBWAA).
“We got to sell these people. And so it was tough. So I said, we don't have much of a chance to put these guys in.”
— Buck O'Neil [29:50]
O'Neil’s advocacy led to pivotal changes, including the 1995 rule adjustment that allowed the Veterans Committee to induct Negro League players, resulting in the inclusion of several legends over subsequent years.
The Story of Norman "Turkey" Stearns: A Family’s Commitment
At the heart of this episode is the touching narrative of Vanessa Ivy Rose’s grandfather, Norman Thomas Stearns. Despite his impressive career with the Kansas City Monarchs, Stearns was overlooked by the Hall of Fame for decades. Rose’s family undertook a persistent campaign to honor his legacy, a journey fraught with emotional and bureaucratic challenges.
The Reunion and Revelation
In 1979, a reunion of former Negro League players brought Stearns face-to-face with the fading glories of his career. During this event, Stearns expressed profound pride:
“I am the proudest man on earth right today. And I know my wife is and my sister and my sister-in-law and everybody.”
— Satchel Paige [09:47]
This moment encapsulated the bittersweet reality of recognition too late and the enduring spirit of those who never saw their contributions fully honored during their lifetimes.
A Family’s Struggle for Recognition
Rose recounts her grandmother, Nettie Stearns' relentless efforts to secure her husband's place in the Hall. Despite countless letters and appeals, progress was sluggish until external advocates like Dan Dierks of the BBWAA intervened.
“You need to step up to the plate and do the right thing.”
— Turkey Stearns [41:26]
This determination culminated in 2000 when Stearns was inducted, marking a significant victory for Rose’s family and the broader Negro League community. However, the road was anything but smooth, as the induction process remained inconsistent and fraught with delays.
Induction and Its Significance
The induction of Norman "Turkey" Stearns in 2000 was a milestone, not just for his family but for the entire Negro League legacy. Rose describes the emotional ceremony:
“I was 16 years old with a piece of gum in my mouth and my ponytail in a white scrunchie. ... this weekend was about Grandpa Turkey, the other inductees, and the people who came to celebrate them.”
— Vanessa Ivy Rose [35:00]
Prominent figures like Yogi Berra, Willie Mays, and Buck O'Neil attended, bridging the past and present of baseball. The induction served as both a personal triumph and a collective recognition of the unjust exclusion faced by many African American players.
Ongoing Challenges and the Future of Negro League Recognition
Despite these advancements, the journey towards comprehensive recognition remains incomplete. The restructuring of the Veterans Committee and sporadic induction of other Negro League figures illustrate the persistent hurdles.
“If we weren't told no, then we were told to wait. ... we're still waiting for much more.”
— Vanessa Ivy Rose [40:00]
The reclassification of the Negro Leagues as a major league by Major League Baseball is a significant step forward, acknowledging the high level of competition and the players' contributions. However, as Rose poignantly notes, the infrequency of committee votes threatens the momentum needed to honor all deserving individuals.
Furthermore, personal losses, such as the passing of Buck O'Neil in 2006 before his long-overdue recognition, highlight the urgent need for systematic changes to ensure no legendary player is forgotten.
Conclusion: The Legacy of the Forgotten League
"The Hall" serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and enduring legacy of Negro League players. Through meticulous storytelling and personal anecdotes, Vanessa Ivy Rose not only honors her grandfather’s memory but also champions the broader cause of recognizing all who contributed to the rich tapestry of baseball history.
The episode underscores a critical message: while progress has been made, the fight for full acknowledgment and appreciation of Negro League players continues. As Major League Baseball takes steps to rectify past injustices, the stories of players like Norman "Turkey" Stearns remain a testament to the unyielding spirit and rightful place of African American athletes in the annals of sports history.
Notable Quotes
-
Ted Williams:
“I hope that someday the names of Satchel Page and Josh Gibson in some way can be added as a symbol of the great Negro players that are not here only because they were not given a chance.”
[Timestamp: 05:30] -
Satchel Paige:
“I am the proudest man on earth right today. And I know my wife is and my sister and my sister-in-law and everybody.”
[Timestamp: 09:47] -
Buck O'Neil:
“We got to sell these people. And so it was tough. So I said, we don't have much of a chance to put these guys in.”
[Timestamp: 29:50] -
Turkey Stearns:
“Who are you to tell us that we are now major leaguers? You know, we always consider our relatives as major leaguers.”
[Timestamp: 41:18]
Closing Remarks
"Reclaimed: The Forgotten League – The Hall" is a compelling exploration of baseball’s untold stories and a heartfelt tribute to those who paved the way for future generations. Through personal narratives and historical analysis, Vanessa Ivy Rose effectively bridges the gap between past injustices and present-day recognition, ensuring that the legacy of the Negro Leagues endures and inspires.