James “Cool Papa Bell” played 21 seasons for several teams in the Negro League from 1922 to 1946

James “Cool Papa Bell” played 21 seasons for several teams in the Negro League from 1922 to 1946 during which time he also played a few seasons in Latin America. He had a career batting average of .316 in the Negro League. He is best remembered for his speed, both on the bases and in centerfield. He typically played very shallow, as he was able to race back as far as necessary to catch any ball hit over his head. Bell was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1974.