Judy Johnson
| Birthdate | 10/26/1899 |
| Death Date | 6/15/1989 |
| Debut Year | 1833 |
| Year of Induction | 1975 |
| Teams | Negro Leagues |
| Positions | Scout, Third Base |
After a Hall of Fame career as a third baseman in the Negro Leagues, Judy Johnson became a Major League scout working for four different teams.
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Judy Johnson was a standout Negro League third baseman from 1923 through 1937
Judy Johnson was a standout Negro League third baseman from 1923 through 1937
One of the premier third baseman Negro League history, Judy Johnson was an outstanding fielder and a clutch hitter during his playing career that spanned from 1923-1937.
Johnson broke in with the Hilldale Club of the Eastern Colored League as a 23-year old. In 1924 his second season, Johnson hit .336 to lead Hilldale to the pennant.
The following season he was even better. Johnson hit a career-high and a return World Series matchup against the Kansas City Monarchs. This time Johnson and Hilldale were crowned champions.
Johnson led the league in hits in both 1926 and ’29. In the nine-year run from 1924-1932 the third baseman hit .335.
Blessed with a strong and accurate arm and good range Johnson was also an outstanding fielder. The line drive hitter was one of the finest all-around third baseman in league history.
His greatness was recognized by his induction to the Hall of Fame in 1975.
In the collection is a handwritten letter from Judy Johnson from 1975. Johnson informs a collector that he’s, “out of pictures just now. Should I get more, I’ll surely send you one.” Johnson then thanks the collector before signing off, “Yours in sports,” and penning his name.
Maryland native Judy Johnson was inducted into the state's Athletic Hall of Fame in 1978
Maryland native Judy Johnson was inducted into the state's Athletic Hall of Fame in 1978
Born in Snow Hill, Maryland the day after Christmas in 1899, Judy Johnson went on to a Hall of Fame baseball career. His home state never forgot him.
Today a statue dedicated to Johnson stands in front of the Snow Hill library. In 1978 the Maryland Athletic Hall of Fame selected Johnson for induction. The Maryland institution boasts 10 Cooperstown men among its inductees.
Johnson was the first Negro League player to gain the distinction. In 2022, Leon Day became the second Cooperstown Negro League Maryland honoree.
Shown here is a letter from Sam Sibler, the chairman of the Maryland Athletic Hall of Fame. In the October 26, 1962 correspondence Sibler informs 16-year MLB vet Bill Nicholson of his selection for the state’s honor.
Nicholson was a four-time National League All Star. Twice he led the Senior Circuit in home runs and RBI. With three 6.0 WAR campaigns, Nicholson’s career WAR stands at 41.9. The right fielder earned MVP votes in five seasons, and finished in the top three for the award in 1943 and 1944.
Nicholson’s career 132 OPS+ is equal to Cooperstown’s Tony Gwynn, Rafael Palmeiro, and one point higher than Rod Carew, and Wade Boggs. He left the game with 1,484 career hits, 235 dingers, and 948 RBI.
For prints of this; K.O.Simms’ acrylic painted Tribute to William ” Judy” Johnson used above , please visit his artist website @ k-o-simms-simms.pixels.com
THANKS.