Negro League star Sam Jethroe became the oldest outfielder to win the Rookie of the Year Award as a member of the Boston Braves in 1950. Born on January 20, 1918, Jethroe was voted the Rookie of the Year on November 9, 1950, making him 32 years and 291 days old. In his rookie year, he batted .273 with 18 HR, 58 RBI, and 35 stolen bases.
In the 2000 season, Seattle Mariners closer Kazuhiro Sasaski became the second-oldest player to win the award. Sasaki was 33 days younger than Jethroe when he was named American League Rookie of the Year. He went 2-5 with 37 saves in 63 appearances for the AL Wild Card winning Mariners.
