Long time K.C. Monarch catcher Ira McKnight Ira was a strong armed backstop in the Negro League. Ira got his start with the Memphis Red Sox as a rookie in 1952. He later spent his entire career playing for the Kansas City Monarchs while taking a brief stint with the Saskatoon Commodores durring the 1960 season. Mcknight had a tryout with the New York Yankees but an already powerful roster durring that era coupled with the unjust acceptance of black athletes in pro sports at the time left the slugging catcher no choice but to return to the K.C. Monarchs.
He once collected 8 straight hits in two games while with the Kansas City Club.
Was managed by famed Negro Leaguer Sherwood Brewer and speaks most about the greatness that surrounded him, however much to his humble dimeaner he was in fact one of the most steady slugging catchers of the late Negro League era!
5From our permanent collection: 1956 K.C. Monarchs Ira McKnight #5 replica Jersey autographed by Ira McKnight
p.s. Thanks to my wife Brianne for her handywork in helping to construct this replica!
Jami and Jody Marsh With Negro League Legend
Ira McKnight!
