Talk:Billy Williams (willibi02)

From BR Bullpen

Couple of questions - Was 1969 his 18th season, or was he signed in 1954 by the Indians (according to BR) making it his 15th season? Also, BR says he was property of the Pilots in 1968, is this right? --Jeff 16:23, 1 March 2008 (EST)

He was signed in 1954 so it would be his 16th season - unless he played in the Negro Leagues in 1952-1953; Riley's encyclopedia only goes up to 1950. - --Mischa 20:37, 1 March 2008 (EST)

Except it seems he played in the minors prior to the time he was signed by the Indians - if a source can be believed: "He was the first African American to play in the Mountain States League when he broke in with the Norton (Virginia) Braves in 1952". Can anyone verify this? - Randy 20:42, 1 March 2008 (EST)

Doyle has a "Bill Williams" in the Mountain States League in 1952-1953. If that's him, we have 18 years. - --Mischa 20:43, 1 March 2008 (EST)

He hit .344 with 18 HR and 140 RBI in 1953 so it's very likely Cleveland would have been interested. - --Mischa 20:43, 1 March 2008 (EST)