An all-around athlete at Frederick High School, excelling in track, Lewis Frank James, Jr., began playing baseball in the Tri-State and County leagues as a left fielder, batting .361 in 1933 and 1934. In 1937, he signed with the Washington Senators farm system, following a .407 local season. He played for three years before returning home to play 11 years with the Frederick Hustlers. He also played with the championship Dr. Pepper softball team. Lewis continued his interest in sports, refereeing basketball for 21 years and umpiring baseball for 25 years. James was truly dedicated and was an athlete, official, and promoter of sports.