A successful catcher is defined by his ability to handle the pitching staff, throw out would-be stealers, and keep errant throws and pitches in front of him. Roy Campanella possessed all these skills and then some.
The man they called “Campy” was the complete package, leading National League catchers in putouts six times, and clubbing 242 home runs in his 10-year Major League career. From 1948-1957, Roy Campanella was securely anchored behind home plate for the Brooklyn Dodgers.
He caught in five World Series and was the first black catcher in Major League Baseball history. On Nov. 19, 1953, Roy Campanella was named Most Valuable Player in National League Baseball for the second time. In 1969, he joined baseball’s elite with his induction into the Hall of Fame.
