Mahlon Duckett
Art Everything in the Negro League was just like major league. We had the American League. We had the National League. We played for the lovely game. Because we couldn't say we played for the money 'cause the money wasn't there. But we played to win. 
-- Mahlon Duckett
Mahlon Duckett was born December 20, 1922 in Philadelphia. He never played baseball in high school as he was too busy running track. During one summer while playing baseball for the Wayne Hawks of the Main Line League, a manager suggested he try out for the Newark Eagles as they were in town to face the Philadelphia Stars that night. While the game was rained out, the Stars manager approached him to try out for his club. He became a starter at the age of 17 for the Philadelphia Stars. He was named the Negro National League "Rookie of the Year" in 1940. Duckett played for the Stars from 1940-1949, and finished his career with the Homestead Grays after the 1950 season. Duckett, a versatile middle infielder, was always known more for his fielding than he was for his bat although he considers his success against Satchel Paige highlights of his career.
After his playing days were over, Duckett worked as a mail carrier for the U.S. Postal Service. He currently sits on the board of the Negro League Baseball Players Association as the Secretary and Treasurer.
After his playing days were over, Duckett worked as a mail carrier for the U.S. Postal Service. He currently sits on the board of the Negro League Baseball Players Association as the Secretary and Treasurer.
