Don Newcombe

Don Newcombe was a towering figure, both literally and figuratively, in the story of baseball integration and excellence. One of the first Black pitchers to make it to the Major Leagues, Newcombe debuted with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1949, just two years after Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier. Newcombe won the National League Rookie of the Year that same season, then went on to achieve even more history by becoming the first, and still only, player to win Rookie of the Year, MVP (1956), and the Cy Young Award (also 1956) in a single career.

Newcombe's dominance on the mound was matched by his poise in the face of relentless racial hostility. As a Black pitcher, a rarity at the time, he faced additional scrutiny, yet he thrived, helping lead the Dodgers to four pennants and their long, awaited 1955 World Series championship. His friendship with Jackie Robinson was deep and personal; the two men leaned on each other as they navigated the pressures of integrating baseball and fighting racism in both subtle and overt forms.

Later in life, Newcombe struggled with alcoholism but turned his life around to become a respected mentor and counselor, even advising modern Dodgers players on mental health and substance abuse. His personal redemption and continued advocacy made him a powerful figure long after his playing days ended. Don Newcombe was more than a great pitcher, he was a pioneer, a survivor, and a role model for generations to come.