Monte wasted no time establishing his dominance inthe Negro Leagues. He was one of the rare five-tool players, able to run, throw, field, hit, and power hit exceptionally well. He was widely considered the games greatest all-around star. Monte had all-star seasons in the outfield as well as at shortstop and third base.

In 1940, Monte batted .422. He followed up that amazing year with an MVP season in 1941, hitting. 386 and belting a league -leading 41 home runs.

Monte continued his success as MVP in the Winter Leagues inCuba. In 1942, he left the Eagles to join the Mexican League. While there, he dominated each of the Triple Crown categories and was alsonamed MVP.

In 1942, Monte married his high school sweetheart, Dee. Together, theyraised two daughters, Pam and Patti.

As part of the American effort in World War II, Monte was drafted and spent three years with the Army Engineers. At the end of the war, he returned to the Negro Leagues and continued to stand out.

Monte scoops up a ground ball.**

Monte with Larry Doby (1946).