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Louis Santop

Catcher
  • Series: Pilgrims
  • City: Oklahoma City
  • Team: Monarchs
  • League: Independent
  • Hall: National Baseball Hall of Fame

Louis Santop (Loftin) (1890-1942) was a prodigious HR slugger & indomitable catcher in the Negro Leagues. He averaged .406 lifetime, caught two of the hardest throwing pitchers of all-time (Smokey Joe Williams & Dick Redding) and endured behind the plate for an astonishing 15 seasons despite the privations and rigor of black baseball in America in his day. A jovial giant, Top was a fan favorite & sure-fire draw with his ability to throw a ball over outfield fences before games & hit it even further during games.

  • It is told the Newark park had an ad promising a suit to players who hit the 440’ centerfield fence. The sign was removed after Santop hit it three times in one game
  • Played for great Negro League teams including the NY Lincoln Giants and the Hilldale Club
  • Elected to Hall of Fame: 2006

Auction History

Cartophilia

T201 Mecca Canvas: Bill Abstein