Satchel Paige

Widely regarded as the greatest pitcher in the history of the Negro Leagues, Leroy "Satchel" Paige compiled such incredible numbers as 64 consecutive scoreless innings, a stretch of 21 straight wins, and a 31-4 record in 1933. In 1948, Paige's dream of pitching in the Major Leagues came true. The Cleveland Indians were in need of an extra arm for the pennant race, and legendary owner Bill Veeck decided to test Paige's accuracy before offering him a big league contract. According to legend, Veeck placed a cigarette on the ground in place of home plate. Paige took aim and fired five fastballs, all but one sailing directly over the miniscule target. Veeck signed him on the spot and Paige helped the Indians win the pennant. In addition to his accuracy on the mound, Paige was renowned for conjuring up such classic quotes as "Age is a question of mind over matter. If you don't mind, it doesn't matter." and "Don't look back. Something might be gaining on you." In 1971, he achieved the ultimate honor when he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame.