The following art and text by Michael Hogue of The Dallas Morning News is reproduced here in The Pecan Park Eagle by written permission from Michael Hogue. Today’s portrait features a look at Buck Leonard, the long-time great first baseman of the famously successful Homestead Grays.
Buck Leonard, the so-called “Black Lou Gehrig” of the Negro Leagues is our “Offering # 10″ in this series and a continuation of this fine Texas artist’s work, Portraits of the Negro Leagues. Thank you again, Michael, for allowing The Pecan Park Eagle to further share the beauty and joy of your work with those who care about the Negro Leagues and their place in baseball history.
For more on Michael Hogue’s work, check out his website:
Walter "Buck" Leonard, First Baseman, Negro Leagues, 1933-1950, Baseball Hall of Fame, 1972.
Buck Leonard by Michael Hogue of The Dallas Morning News
“Known as the ‘Black Lou Gehrig,’ (Buck) Leonard was one of the best-liked players in the game. A feared hitter and exceptional fielder, he played first base for the Homestead Grays team that won nine consecutive Negro National League pennants between 1937 and 1945.
“In 1939, eight years before Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier, Washington Senators owner Clark Griffith asked Leonard whether he wanted to play in the major leagues. But nothing came of the meeting. Thirteen years later, at age 45, Leonard was offered a contract to play in the major leagues. He knew that age was against him and declined the offer.”
Houston, Baseball, & Other Musings.
The Pecan Park Eagle 