1933 Columbus Blue Birds

1933 Columbus Blue Birds / Franchise: Columbus Blue Birds / BR Team Page

Record: 15-27-0, finished 8th in Negro National League (1933 NNL) - did not complete season

Managed by Dizzy Dismukes

Ballpark: Neil Park

History, Comments, Contributions

The 1933 Columbus Blue Birds began the season in the new Negro National League when it formed that year. They finished last in the first half and then disbanded, being replaced by the Cleveland Giants (some sources say the team moved and became Cleveland, but the roster appears significantly different).

The Blue Birds certainly had some talent, especially in the outfield - CF Jabbo Andrews (.398/.432/.651, 179 OPS+, 17 R, 17 RBI in 22 G), LF Clarence Griffin (.316/.372/.468, 118 OPS+) and RF Wilson Redus (.275/.342/.468, 109 OPS+). C Ameal Brooks was solid at .280/.344/.463 (109 OPS+). The infield was the weak spot on offense with 1B Joe Scott (.271/.328/.393, 87 OPS+), 2B Kermit Dial (.250/.289/.319, 59 OPS+), SS Dennis Gilchrist (.275/.324/.333, 72 OPS+) and 3B Dewey Creacy (.236/.314/.321, 66 OPS+) though shortstop Leroy Morney hit .382/.433/.527 for a 150 OPS+ before moving on.

Bill Byrd (3-8, 4.26, 104 ERA+) pitched over a third of their innings and did okay but led the NNL in losses due to the lack of support. Oddly, Roy Williams (5-2, 4.68, 95 ERA+) had a worse ERA and a better record. Roosevelt Davis (2-2, 2.67, 167 ERA+) was their #3 hurler.

All stats listed are per the database 12/28/2020; other sources vary

Awards and Honors

• All-Star: Leroy Morney