Robert Benjamin Black (December 10, 1862 – March 21, 1933) was a 19th-century American professional baseball player.

[2] The Blackbirds finished with a final record of 43–48 and placed fourth in the Iowa–South Dakota League standings, playing the season under managers Bobby Alberts and his replacement, Bob Black.

As a retired major league player, Black was recruited to become the manager after being spotted watching a game from the stands early in the season.

[4][5][6] In June 1903, Le Mars manager Bob Black signed Baseball Hall of Fame member Branch Rickey, to a contract with a salary of $150 per month.

In 1903, Rickey hit .265 in 41 games for Le Mars as the team's catcher and the Blackbirds won the league championship under Black.