The ManDak League: Haven for Former Negro League Ballplayers, 1950-1957

The ManDak League may be one of baseball's best kept secrets. Operating in Manitoba and North Dakota from 1950 to 1957, it was the outlet for former Negro Leaguers to continue playing and entertaining fans, occupying fields with ex-major leaguers, minor league stars and some of the best Manitoba-, North Dakota-,and Minnesota-born players. It featured such greats as Willie Wells, Leon Day, Ray Dandridge and Satchel Paige, who pitched briefly for the Minot Mallards in 1950. In Part I, chapters on each of the ManDak's eight seasons provide detailed information on the stadiums, franchise and league personnel, pennant races, and standout performances. In Part II, a comprehensive listing of profiles presents basic information on the league's players, their baseball backgrounds, and their accomplishments in the ManDak and other leagues. Emphasis is given to former Negro Leaguers, many of whom finished their careers in the ManDak League. Appendices provide batting and pitching records, rosters, and rules of conduct.