Was regarded as the best catcher in baseball during his time.
Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame, 1969. Played for the National
League's Brooklyn Dodgers, 1948-57.
Was paralyzed from the neck down as a result of an automobile accident
in January of 1958; never walked or played baseball again. Showed
tremendous courage and was an inspiration to others who suffered the
same fate.
Was the National League's Most Valuable Player in 1951, 1953, and 1955.
Played with the Baltimore Elite Giants of the Negro Leagues before
joining the Dodgers.
Pictured on one of four US 39¢ commemorative postage stamps honoring
Baseball Sluggers, issued 7/15/2006. Other stamps in this set honor
Hank Greenberg, Mel Ott, and Mickey Mantle.