Born in 1898 in Illinois, Bottomley's path to baseball stardom began in the semi-professional leagues. His talent was evident, attracting the attention of St. Louis Cardinals scout Charley Barrett. Bottomley quickly rose through the minor leagues, showcasing impressive hitting skills and a natural feel for the game. He debuted with the Cardinals in 1922, immediately establishing himself as a reliable contributor.

Bottomley, a player who wasn't known for his power-hitting, displayed a remarkable consistency at the plate. He achieved a coveted feat – batting over .300 – an incredible nine times throughout his 16-year career. His on-base percentage was consistently high, and he possessed a knack for driving in runs, leading the league in RBIs twice. He held the single-game RBI record (12) for 69 years, a testament to his clutch-hitting ability and unwavering determination.

Bottomley's value extended beyond his statistics. His leadership and temperament were invaluable to the team, earning him the nickname "Sunny Jim" for his positive attitude on and off the field. He was a key component in the St. Louis Cardinals' championship runs, contributing to the team's success and fostering a respectful and positive team environment. He won two World Series titles with the team in 1926 and 1931.

In 1928, Bottomley's season was awe-inspiring. He led the National League in home runs, RBIs, and total bases, earning him the coveted MVP award. While his postseason numbers weren't as stellar, his regular-season dominance cemented his place among the league's elite.

Bottomley's career extended beyond the Cardinals. He played for the Cincinnati Reds and St. Louis Browns before retiring in 1937. After playing, he remained in baseball, serving as a scout and minor league manager for the Chicago Cubs organization.