Bob Griffith: The Powerhouse Pitcher of the Negro Leagues
In the golden era of the Negro leagues, few figures commanded the mound with as much physical presence as Robert Lee Griffith. Known by the nicknames 'Schoolboy' and 'Big Bill', Griffith was a formidable pitcher whose career spanned nearly two decades of professional baseball, leaving a mark across North America and the Caribbean.
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Key Facts
- Full Name: Robert Lee Griffith
- Career Span: 1934–1951
- Physical Stature: 6' 5", 235 lb.
- All-Star Status: Three-time East-West All-Star (1935, 1948, 1949)
- Military Service: Served in the US Army during World War II
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on October 1, 1912, in Liberty, Tennessee, Bob Griffith entered the professional baseball scene in 1934. He made his debut with the Nashville Elite Giants, beginning a journey that would see him play for some of the most storied franchises in the Negro leagues.
Griffith's physical attributes—standing 6 feet 5 inches and weighing 235 pounds—made him a natural force on the mound. While he threw right-handed, he was also capable of batting from the left side of the plate.
A Journey Through the Leagues
Griffith's career was characterized by his versatility and longevity. He played for a wide array of teams, moving through various cities and organizations as the landscape of professional baseball evolved.
Domestic Teams
His tenure in the United States included stints with the Elite Giants in Nashville, Columbus, Washington, and Baltimore. He also spent significant time with the New York Black Yankees, the Newark Eagles, the Memphis Red Sox, and the Philadelphia Stars. His professional journey concluded in 1951 with the Granby Red Sox.
International Experience
Beyond the borders of the United States, Griffith expanded his professional reach by playing in several international leagues. He competed in professional baseball circuits in Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, and Venezuela, showcasing his talent on a global stage.
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Career Milestones and Legacy
One of the highest honors in the Negro leagues was selection to the East-West All-Star Game, a showcase of the league's premier talent. Griffith achieved this honor three times, appearing in the 1935, 1948, and 1949 games.
Between his baseball achievements, Griffith answered the call of duty by serving in the US Army during World War II, pausing his athletic pursuits to contribute to the war effort.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Born | October 1, 1912 (Liberty, Tennessee) |
| Died | November 8, 1977 (Indianapolis, Indiana) |
| Position | Pitcher |
| Debut Year | 1934 (Nashville Elite Giants) |
| Final Year | 1951 (Granby Red Sox) |
| All-Star Appearances | 1935, 1948, 1949 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Bob Griffith's nicknames?
Bob Griffith was commonly referred to as 'Schoolboy' or 'Big Bill'.
Which teams did Bob Griffith play for in the Negro leagues?
He played for the Nashville, Columbus, Washington, and Baltimore Elite Giants, the New York Black Yankees, Newark Eagles, Memphis Red Sox, Philadelphia Stars, and the Granby Red Sox.
Did Bob Griffith play baseball outside of the United States?
Yes, he played professionally in Mexico, Cuba, Venezuela, and the Dominican Republic.
How many times was Bob Griffith an All-Star?
He was a three-time pitcher in the East-West All-Star Game, selected in 1935, 1948, and 1949.
When and where did Bob Griffith pass away?
Bob Griffith died on November 8, 1977, in Indianapolis, Indiana, at the age of 65.