Chandler began his playing career with the Philadelphia Phillies in 1945, and went on to play for four other teams - the St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago Cubs, Pittsburgh Pirates, and the New York Giants. His career as a player was brief but successful, and he ended his playing career in 1952 with an overall record of 42-45.
In 1954, Chandler was appointed Commissioner of Baseball by the owners of the major league teams. As the first commissioner to be elected by the owners since 1920, he was tasked with restoring public confidence in baseball after the scandalous events of the Black Sox incident in 1919. He implemented a number of changes to the game, including the addition of the All-Star Game and the division of the two leagues into East and West divisions.
Chandler also spearheaded the integration of baseball by signing Jackie Robinson to the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947. He was also responsible for the expansion of the major leagues, which he accomplished by adding the Kansas City Athletics and Washington Senators in 1961.
Chandler left his post as Commissioner of Baseball in 1965 and was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1982. He is remembered as a great leader who helped restore the integrity of the game and opened up opportunities for African-American players. He was also known for his colorful personality and his love for the game of baseball.
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