Monte Irvin

Date of Birth: February 25, 1919

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: January 11, 2016

Biography

Monte Irvin was an American professional baseball player and an influential figure in the desegregation of Major League Baseball (MLB). Born Monford Merrill Irvin in Haleburg, Alabama, he grew up in Orange, New Jersey, and excelled in multiple sports during his youth. Irvin’s baseball career began in the Negro Leagues with the Newark Eagles, where he played from 1938 to 1948, interrupted only by his service in the U.S. Army during World War II. After Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in MLB, Irvin joined the New York Giants in 1949. He became a standout player, helping the Giants win the National League pennant in 1951 and the World Series in 1954. A versatile outfielder and first baseman, Irvin was known for his powerful hitting and leadership on the field. After his playing career, he worked in various roles within MLB, including as a special assistant to the commissioner. Irvin was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1973, recognizing his exceptional talent and contributions to the game. He remained active in promoting baseball and advocating for the recognition of Negro League players until his death in 2016.

5 Interesting Facts about Monte Irvin

1. Monte Irvin was one of the first African American players to be signed by a Major League Baseball team after the desegregation of the sport.

2. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II, where he saw combat in Europe.

3. Irvin played a pivotal role in the New York Giants’ 1951 National League pennant win, batting .312 with 24 home runs and 121 RBIs that season.

4. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1973, largely for his contributions to both the Negro Leagues and Major League Baseball.

5. Irvin was the first black player to be hired in an executive position in MLB when he became a special assistant to the commissioner.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Monte Irvin

1. “I could have played longer, but I didn’t want to. I decided it was time to move on.”

2. “There was a lot of pressure on the black players who were among the first to break into the majors. You had to be twice as good to be considered equal.”

3. “Winning the World Series was a dream come true, but being inducted into the Hall of Fame was the ultimate honor.”

4. “I’m proud of what I accomplished, but I’m even prouder of the doors I helped open for others.”

5. “Baseball has always been more than a game to me; it’s been a way of life.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Monte Irvin’s highest net worth was estimated to be around $1 million at the peak of his post-playing career, which included his roles in MLB’s executive offices and endorsements.