American Icons - Baseball Hall of Fame - Cool Papa Bell ©Terry Heffernan

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Artifacts from the Baseball Hall of Fame

James Thomas "Cool Papa" Bell 1903 - 1991

Elected to Hall of Fame 1974


Among the most illustrious players in Negro leagues baseball history, James “Cool Papa” Bell was noted for his incredible speed on the base paths, excellence as a lead-off hitter and his superb defensive play as a center fielder. He began his career as a pitcher, but his other talents ensured he would become an everyday player. Bell’s career lasted 20 years, with teams such as the St. Louis Stars, Pittsburgh Crawfords and the Homestead Grays.




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