Robert Fettgather's writings have been published in the Transactional Analysis Journal (Translated to French per the Centre Pour La Formationet L'intervention Psycho-Sociologiques), Voices: The Art and Science of Psychotherapy, and Lifelong Learning. He is a adjunct professor of psychology at Mission College. Robert Fettgather is also a baseball fan.
Some baseball lore seems almost impossible to believe. But the legacy of this pitcher is quite true and important to the game.
Leroy “Satchel” Paige is one of the most iconic and influential figures in the history of American baseball. Born in 1906 in Mobile, Alabama, Paige's career spanned five decades and broke significant barriers in the world of sports, particularly for African Americans. He was a pitcher known not only for his extraordinary talent but also for his charismatic personality, his showmanship, and his incredible longevity. Despite the obstacles he faced due to segregation and racial discrimination, Paige left an indelible mark on baseball, both in the Negro Leagues and Major League Baseball (MLB).
Paige was in some ways "bigger than life". He was not only a great pitcher, but also a charismatic and entertaining personality. He drew large crowds wherever he went, even participating in barnstorming tours, where he would pitch against major league players in exhibition games. These barnstorming tours were significant because they allowed Paige to showcase his talent against white players, many of whom openly admitted that he was among the best pitchers in the world, regardless of race. These games demonstrated that the talent gap between the Negro Leagues and the major leagues was nonexistent, but the racial barrier was firmly in place.
Paige’s popularity transcended the baseball diamond. He often engaged with fans, making witty remarks and providing colorful commentary on the game. One of his most famous quotes, "Don't look back, something might be gaining on you," became a metaphor for his approach to life—always moving forward, never dwelling on the past. His larger-than-life personality endeared him to fans of all races, and his popularity laid the groundwork for the eventual integration of Major League Baseball.
Satchel Paige’s career defied conventional notions of athletic peak and decline. While most pitchers retire in their 30s, Paige pitched well into his 40s and even made an appearance in the major leagues at the age of 59, in 1965, for the Kansas City Athletics. His longevity, along with his enduring skill, made him a marvel in the world of sports.
Paige's legacy extends far beyond his statistics, which are difficult to fully capture due to the lack of complete records from the Negro Leagues. However, his contributions to baseball are immeasurable. He became an ambassador for the sport, bridging the gap between the Negro Leagues and the major leagues, and inspiring future generations of Black athletes. His success helped pave the way for the full integration of baseball and the eventual recognition of Negro League players in the Baseball Hall of Fame, where Paige was inducted in 1971.
