Melvin Powell
From BR Bullpen
Melvin Powell (Put)
(nickname also listed as Putt. Black Baseball's National Showcase identifies him as Malvin)
- Bats Right, Throws Right
- Height 5' 5", Weight 145 lb.
- Born May 30, 1908 in Edwards, MS USA
- Died February 1985 in Chicago, IL USA
Melvin Powell played 13 years with the Chicago American Giants, with a 22-11 record; over half of his wins came in one year, though. Powell debuted in 1930, going 2-1. After a year with Dave Malarcher's minor Columbia Giants, he returned to Chicago along with Malarcher. Powell went 14-7, tying teammate Wee Willie Powell for second in the Negro Southern League in wins, behind another teammate, Bill Foster. He fanned 23, third in the NSL, and his 1.99 RA was lowest int he loop. He beat Pullman Porter in a post-season game.
Melvin was 3-0 in 1933. In 1934, Putt was 0-1 but he made the 1934 East-West Game and appeared as a pinch-runner. Powell went 2-2 in 1935, 1-0 the next year and did not register a decision in 1937 and would not get a decision for Chicago in league competition again despite remaining with them through 1943.
Despite his size, Powell hit with power and played the outfield and first base on occasion.
After retiring, he owned a restaurant in Chicago, IL.
Sources: The Biographical Encyclopedia of the Negro Baseball Leagues by James Riley, The Complete Book of Baseball's Negro Leagues by John Holway, Black Baseball's National Showcase by Larry Lester
