"Altman was a dual sport athlete (baseball and basketball) at Tennessee State University. He began his professional career with the Negro American League's Kansas City Monarchs in 1955. Altman played for Hall of Fame player-manager Buck O'Neil that year. The Cubs hired O'Neil as a scout in 1956. On the legendary evaluator's recommendation, Chicago signed the 6'4″ Altman to a minor league contract."
"His average ticked up to .266 in year two before a career season in 1961. Altman batted .303/.350/.560 with a personal-high 27 home runs across 573 trips to the plate. He led the National League with 12 triples and tied for 19th in the majors in homers. Altman finished 14th in MLB in average, 12th in slugging percentage, and tied for 16th in OPS (min. 500 plate appearances)."
George Altman died at age 92, with the announcement made by Bob Kendrick, president of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. Altman was a dual-sport athlete at Tennessee State University and began his professional career with the Kansas City Monarchs in 1955 under Buck O'Neil. Chicago signed him to a minor league contract after O'Neil recommended him. Altman paused his career for Army service, returned in 1958, and debuted in the majors in 1959 as an Opening Day center fielder. He produced standout seasons in 1961 and 1962, earning All-Star honors and finishing high in league offensive categories.
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