Nat Bates and Greg Morrison talk at Athletic Park on Aug. 23. (Photo Courtesy Bob Schneider)

By Chris Brown

VIDEO: Nat Bates back on the field in Medicine Hat after more than 70 years

Aug 23, 2022 | 4:55 PM

The last time Nat Bates was in Medicine Hat was more than 70 years ago, pitching for the Medicine Hat California Mohawks in the Western Canada Baseball League.

Nat came to Canada to continue his career, one of close to 500 black baseball players to do so. After one season in Medicine Hat, Nat and some teammates began to play for the Indian Head Rockets in Saskatchewan, a team that drew crowds of up to 10,000 for some games. Nat represented that team this past weekend as it was inducted into the Saskatchewan Baseball Hall of Fame.

Nat was back in Medicine Hat today, and his return brought back many memories. He stopped by Athletic Park and spoke with CHAT News.