Born: May 17, 1903, in Starkville, Mississippi
Died: March 7, 1991, in St. Louis, Missouri

Primary Position: Center Fielder
Bats: B   Throws: L  

Played For: St. Louis Stars (1922-1931), Detroit Wolves (1932), Kansas City Monarchs (1932, 1934), Homestead Grays (1932, 1943-1946), Pittsburgh Crawfords (1933-1938), Memphis Red Sox (1942), Chicago American Giants (1942), Detroit Senators (1947), Kansas City Stars (1948-1950)

Bio
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.

Quote
"Cool Papa Bell was so fast he could get out of bed, turn out the lights across the room and be back in bed under the covers before the lights went out."
   — Josh Gibson

Did You Know... that Cool Papa Bell was one of six future Hall of Famers who played with the 1936 Pittsburgh Crawfords of the Negro National League?