Judy Johnson and Buck Leonard were two of the great stars of the Negro Leagues. Johnson, the elder of the two, broke into the professional ranks with the Hilldale Club of Philadelphia, but became renowned for his period with the Homestead Grays and Pittsburgh Crawfords. A sure handed third baseman, Johnson was responsible for discovering Josh Gibson, the Negro Leagues answer to Babe Ruth. Buck Leonard played almost his entire career for the Grays, although his career did not overlap with Johnson’s. Leonard was a three-time Negro League champion, leading the Grays to the title in ’43. ’44, and ’48.

     Leonard and Johnson are pictured here in the uniforms of their beloved Homestead Grays, some forty years after the terminus of their careers. Each man signed their name in blue pen. Additionally, postcards of the two players Hall of Fame plaques are included beneath the photos. Both were signed in black pen. This framed display measures 13x18 inches and this item comes with a Letter of Authenticity from Steve Grad of Beckett Authentication.

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