1971 Hall of Fame

 The Hall of Fame debuted a new group of people to honor in 1971. In addition to the players, Managers, umpires, executives and pioneers, the Hall announced that they will also honor the Negro League players, who were not affiliated with MLB and will be honored with their own selections (as opposed to the previous Federal League, for example, that was absorbed by MLB and got no separate distinction) to be in the Hall alongside MLB legends. The BBWAA voters agreed to zero new entries while the Veterans Committee came through with the most names ever in their run.

Also inducted:

George Weiss (Pioneer / Executive) Farm Director and later Vice President of the New York Yankees that produced 9 pennant winners and 8 World Series champions from 1932-1947. Became General Manager in 1947 where he oversaw 10 additional pennants and 7 championships. Joined the front office of the New York Mets when they were created.

Satchel Paige - Negro Leagues