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John Irvin Kennedy (October 12, 1926 – April 27, 1998) was an American professional baseball shortstop. Kennedy was the first African-American player to be signed by and play for the Philadelphia Phillies, the last National League baseball team to support anti-Black segregation.
Apr 22, 2022 · John Irvin Kennedy made history on April 22, 1957, becoming the first African American Phillies player. His career lasted only five games, but his family is making sure his legacy lives on. by Alex Coffey. Published April 22, 2022, 5:00 a.m. ET. JACKSONVILLE, Fla.
- Alex Coffey
Jun 30, 2022 · Sixty-five years after his debut, John Irvin Kennedy was honored by the Phillies for being their first African American player. Tazena Kennedy, John's daughter, waved to the crowd as his jersey was unveiled.
- Alex Coffey
Jun 29, 2022 · Sixty-five years after his debut, John Irvin Kennedy is honored by the Phillies for being their first African American player. Tazena Kennedy, John's daughter, wipes away tears as his jersey was unveiled on Wednesday night.
- Alex Coffey
Aug 26, 2021 · On April 22, 1957, John Irvin Kennedy becomes the first African American player on the Philadelphia Phillies, fully integrating the National League 10 years after Jackie...
Mar 5, 2022 · John Irvin Kennedy broke the Philadelphia Phillies' color line in 1957, but the Jacksonville native couldn't cash in like today's squabbling players.
Feb 28, 2024 · On April 22, 1957, John Kennedy made his MLB debut becoming the Philadelphia Phillies first Black player. In the eighth inning, Kennedy entered the Phillies game against the Los Angeles Dodgers as a pinch runner. This made the Phillies the last NL team to have a Black player play for them.
