This book is hand signed by Baseball Hall of Fame member Monte Irvin. The signature reads: Best Wishes Monte Irvin HOF 73.

Like many great black athletes of his time, Monte Irvin played out most of his Hall of Fame career in the Negro Leagues. However, he played an instrumental role during his eight seasons with the New York Giants helping them win two pennants.

Irvin started his professional baseball career in the Negro Leagues at the early age of 17. He quickly developed into a power-hitting, smooth fielding, base stealing triple threat. 1951 proved to be a year to remember for Monte leading the League in RBI and completing the rare feat of stealing home in the World Series.

During his career as Negro player, he was a five time selection to the All-Star team. Irvin's induction into the Hall of Fame in 1973 was "special." He was chosen by the Special Committee on Negro Leagues who had previously selected only three players: Josh Gibson, Satchel Paige and Buck Leonard.

So much of baseball history is intertwined with the legacy of the Negro Leagues that it's hard to believe how many of these great players remain virtually anonymous to most fans of the game. One of the best players in the leagues' history, Monte Irvin, has helped to correct that injustice by identifying the five greatest players at each position as well as paying homage to the great coaches, owners, and teams. Sure, you'll find Jackie Robinson, Satchel Paige, and Josh Gibson in this book--as you well should--but you will also come across some names you've never seen before, and you'll likely be stunned by what these players accomplished in virtual obscurity and under adverse conditions.

For more on Monte Irvin visit

http://www.cmgworldwide.com/baseball/irvin/index.html

ISBN 978-1-57243-855-2