Star infielder in Negro leagues

Carlos Manuel Santiago, 82, a star infielder in the Negro baseball leagues during the 1940s, died Sunday of cardiac failure at his home in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, said his son, Carlos Manuel Santiago Feliciano.

Born in Mayaguez on March 2, 1926, Santiago played second base and shortstop for the New York Cubans in 1945-1946. He was invited to spring training by the Cleveland Indians in 1951 but was soon drafted into the Army and sent to Korea.

After his discharge, he continued to play professionally in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Colombia and Puerto Rico until 1960. After his retirement, he managed and coached for 23 years. He also served as a scout for several years for the California Angels.

He was a member of the board of directors of the Negro League Baseball Players Assn. Earlier this year, Santiago was among the former Negro Leaguers invited to attend a ceremonial draft organized by Major League Baseball.