Smokey Joe Williams

On this date in 1999, Negro League great Smokey Joe Williams was elected to the Hall of Fame.

"They talk about Satchel throwing hard but I think Joe threw harder. It used to take two catchers to hold him. By the time the fifth inning was over, the catcher's hand would be all swollen. He'd have to have another catcher back there the rest of the game." - Catcher Sam Streeter

Smokey Joe Williams

On this date in 1999, Smokey Joe Williams was elected to the Hall of Fame.

"They talk about Satchel throwing hard but I think Joe threw harder. It used to take two catchers to hold him. By the time the fifth inning was over, the catcher's hand would be all swollen. He'd have to have another catcher back there the rest of the game." - Catcher Sam Streeter

Smokey Joe Williams

On this date in 1999, Negro League star Smokey Joe Williams is elected to the Hall of Fame.

"They talk about Satchel throwing hard but I think Joe threw harder. It used to take two catchers to hold him. By the time the fifth inning was over, the catcher's hand would be all swollen. He'd have to have another catcher back there the rest of the game." - Catcher Sam Streeter