Brooks Lawrence was an American Major League Baseball player who had a notable career as a right-handed pitcher. Born on January 30, 1925, in Springfield, Ohio, Lawrence made his professional debut with the St. Louis Cardinals in 1954. He was one of the few African-American players in the league during that era, breaking into the majors seven years after Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier.

Lawrence's career took off when he was traded to the Cincinnati Redlegs (now known as the Cincinnati Reds) in 1956. He had an outstanding season that year, winning his first 13 decisions and earning a spot on the National League All-Star team. He finished the season with a 19-10 record and a 3.99 earned run average (ERA), helping the Redlegs to a third-place finish in the National League.

In 1957, Lawrence again had a strong season, posting a 16-13 record with a 3.52 ERA and earning his second consecutive All-Star selection. He continued to be a reliable starter for the Redlegs over the next three seasons, although his win-loss record and ERA fluctuated.

Lawrence's performance began to decline in 1960, and he was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals midway through the season. He spent the next two years primarily as a relief pitcher before retiring from professional baseball in 1962.

Over his nine-year Major League career, Lawrence compiled a 69-62 record with a 4.25 ERA in 1,040 innings pitched. He was known for his control and his ability to induce ground balls, which helped him succeed despite not being a power pitcher.

After his playing career, Lawrence remained involved in baseball. He served as a scout for the Philadelphia Phillies and the Cincinnati Reds, and he also worked in the Reds' front office. He was inducted into the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame in 1976.

Brooks Lawrence passed away on April 27, 2000, in Abington, Pennsylvania. His legacy lives on as a trailblazer for African-American players and as one of the standout pitchers of his era.

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