In a groundbreaking move, Major League Baseball has incorporated Negro Leagues records for over 2,300 players into its official statistics, leading to significant changes in the record books. Josh Gibson, a legendary player from the Negro Leagues, now holds the career batting average record with an impressive .372, surpassing the previous record held by Ty Cobb.
Gibson’s incredible .466 batting average for the 1943 season with the Homestead Grays has now become the standard, highlighting the exceptional talent that existed in the Negro Leagues. Additionally, Gibson also claimed the top spot in slugging percentage and OPS, surpassing even the great Babe Ruth.
Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed the importance of recognizing the achievements of Negro League players, stating that their accomplishments serve as a gateway to understanding the history of the sport and the path to Jackie Robinson’s groundbreaking debut in 1947.
The decision to include Negro Leagues records comes after a three-year research project led by a special committee on baseball records. The updated statistics will be made public before a tribute game between the St. Louis Cardinals and San Francisco Giants in June.
This move not only honors the legacy of Negro League players but also sheds light on a significant chapter in American history. The inclusion of these records will ensure that future generations of fans have access to the remarkable achievements of these talented athletes.