USA 2012, Baseball, Larry Doby, Ted Williams, Joe Dimaggio and Willie Stargell - Forever First Class

Larry Doby

One faced prejudice with dignity and courage.  

Larry Doby (1923-2003) was the first African American to play in the American League, joining the Cleveland Indians shortly after Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in the National League.  The seven-time All-Star excelled as a hitter and center fielder and set an American League outfielder record for the 164 consecutive errorless games.  But more important, he helped make our national pastime truly all American.  

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Ted Williams

One took time from his career to serve his country, not once, but twice. 

Ted Williams (1918-2002) of the Boston Red Sox served during World War II and the Korean War.  The last Major League player to bat over .400 for a single season, in 1941, Williams won six American League batting titles and four home run titles.  Despite the breaks in his career, Williams hit .344 over 19 years, including 521 home runs.  Today, "the Kid" is regarded as one of the all-time greatest hitters in Major League Baseball history.  

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Joe Dimaggio 

One was from an immigrant family.  

The son of an Italian fisherman, Joe DiMaggio (1914-1999) was admired for his skill and grace as a fielder and base runner.  The Yankee Clipper is best known for his incredible 56-game hitting streak in 1941 - the season of "the Streak."  DiMaggio led the New York Yankees to ten pennants and nine World Series titles.  Many consider him the greatest all-around player of his time.   

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Willie Stargell 

One taught us about team spirit.

Willie Stargell (1940-2001) powered the 1979 Pittsburgh Pirates, a multicultural team know as "The Family," to a World Series title.  Hitting 475 home runs during his career, the seven-time National League All-Star is famous for smashing baseballs out of the stadiums.  But "Pops" Stargell is also remembered for promoting harmony between players from different backgrounds.  

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from the back of the sheet that these stamps were on...

Major League Baseball All-Stars

The crack of a bat on a hot summer day.  A roar from the crowd.  A white orb flashing against the sun and sailing over the fence ... out of the ballpark ... and into the realm of baseball legend.