Matt Williams A Career Marked by Power, Consistency, and World Series Accolades
A Well-Rounded Hitter with Exceptional Power:
Drafted by the San Francisco Giants in 1986, Williams established himself as a force early on. While his batting average remained consistent around .268 throughout his career, his power hitting was undeniable. He amassed 378 home runs, ranking him 75th all-time, and exceeded 30 home runs in six different seasons, showcasing his consistent ability to launch the ball.
Changing Teams and Finding World Series Success:
Williams spent his first ten seasons with the Giants, becoming a fan favorite known for his clutch hitting and infectious personality. He then embarked on a journey that saw him play for the Cleveland Indians, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Chicago Cubs, consistently performing at a high level.
One of the highlights of his career came in 1997 with the Cleveland Indians, where he earned a World Series ring. He was a key contributor throughout the playoffs, including a memorable three-homer game against the Milwaukee Brewers in the ALDS.
Beyond the Statistics: Gold Glove Defense and Leadership:
While recognized for his hitting prowess, Williams wasn't a one-dimensional player. Throughout his career, he earned four Gold Glove Awards for his defensive excellence at third base, showcasing his well-rounded skillset. He also served as a team leader, respected by teammates and coaches alike.
The life sketch bio of Matt Williams, who was five-time All-Star Third Baseman Matt Williams. Williams played on the San Francisco Giants (1989-96), Cleveland Indians (1997), Arizona Diamondbacks (1998-03) for 15 seasons as he batted 0.268 for his career, had an On Base percentage of 0.489, with 378 career Home Runs, and 4 Gold Glove Awarded Seasons. Matt also won the Silver Slugger Award four times as well as a World Series Championship, and a Manager of the Year Honors.
This Day in Baseball June 18 - 4 over 400
ThisDayinBaseball.com has tons of June 18 action like this:
2002 - In the first major league game to feature four players with 400 career homers, the Cubs beat the Rangers, 4-3, when Alex Gonzalez hits a walk-off homer in the bottom of the ninth inning. Sammy Sosa (475), Fred McGriff (459), and Juan Gonzalez (401) watched Rafael Palmeiro add his 460th home run to the total.
May 13 Cup Comeback
The NHL.com shares some brilliant events in hockey history from May 13 including the Bruins comeback win over the Maple Leafs in game 7 of the Stanley Cup Finals. This story and more
This Day in Baseball June 17 - Zip Relief
The ThisDayinBaseball.com website provides dozens of June 17 events including this gem:
1915 - Cubs right-hander reliever Zip Zabel pitches 18 innings in relief.
This Day in Baseball June 17 - A Perfect Day
The ThisDayinBaseball.com website provides dozens of June 17 events, including this beauty:
1880 - John Montgomery Ward throws a perfect game
May 11 Blake caps NHL Career with 11th Championship
May 22 - BR Bullpen
May 19 Baseball-Reference Bullpen
Andruw Jones Number 25 Retired by Braves
Baseball History Unpacked - May 27
BleedCubbieBlue.com on SB nation sends word for May 27 that:
1904 - Dan McGann of the New York Giants collects five stolen bases in one game against the Brooklyn Superbas
1960 - Baltimore Orioles catcher Clint Courtney uses an oversized mitt in an effort to handle the pitches of knuckleballer Hoyt Wilhelm.
There is more info shared too about Ehren Wassermann, Jamey Carroll, David Dellucci dashes for home and beats Paul Konerko, Toby Hall, Grady Sizemore, Willson Contreras, Javier Baez, and more.