Local Baseball Player’s Family Legacy Leads to Pro Breakthrough

Khyle Radcliffe is chasing a professional baseball dream rooted deeply in family history. The Chicago native plays in the California Winter League in Palm Springs with the Manitoba North Stars as an outfielder and designated hitter, carrying a legacy tied to the Negro Leagues.

Radcliffe’s great uncles, Ted “Double-Duty” Radcliffe and Alex Radcliff, were among the most accomplished players of their era. Ted Radcliffe starred as both a pitcher and catcher, while Alex Radcliff is widely regarded as the greatest third baseman in the history of the Negro American League.

During Black History Month, Radcliffe’s journey reflects the lasting impact of that legacy. His path has included playing alongside his brother, Jacoby, at Southern University, and working toward a professional opportunity of his own.

That opportunity arrived with a surprise visit from Frontier League commissioner Steve Tahsler. The Frontier League is an official Major League Baseball partner league, and Radcliffe was selected to join the Windy City ThunderBolts, a professional team based in his hometown of Chicago.

The move places Radcliffe one step closer to the major leagues and marks the next chapter in a family legacy that continues to shape baseball history.