American League names Larry Doby special assistant

NEW YORK, April 17 -- The American League Monday named Larry Doby special assistant to president Gene Budig.

Budig said the former star outfielder for the Cleveland Indians and manager of the White Sox will provide the league with 'unique aspects on all aspects of the game.' Doby was the first black to play in the American League, joining the Indians after Jackie Robinson debuted for the Brooklyn Dodgers. Doby hit .301 in 1948 and led the Indians to the American League pennant. Doby, who also played for the White Sox and Detroit, was a seven-time All-Star and led the league in home runs in 1952 and 1954.