Bill Lane

Harry William Lane (Hardrock)

• Born February 29, 1860
• Died October 9, 1938

Biographical Information

Bill Lane was a long time owner in the Pacific Coast League. Lane claimed to have been a miner, explorer and Indian fighter before getting involved in business of baseball. His first foray into the game was as a partner in the Butte Miners. He purchased part of the Mission Wolves when the team moved and became the Salt Lake City Bees in 1915. During the 1918 post World War I reorganization of the league he was able to get total control and ownership of the Salt Lake City franchise. After the 1925 season with attendance dwindling in Utah, Lane moved the club to become the Hollywood Stars. His ongoing feud with Los Angeles Angels owner Philip K. Wrigley over rental fees for Wrigley Field caused him to move the club again. The newly minted San Diego Padres were an instant success. They won the league title in only their second season in San Diego. Lane also served as vice-president of the PCL.

Their new home in San Diego, Lane Field was named after the owner. After only three seasons in San Diego Lane died. Lane is a member of the Pacific Coast League Hall of Fame.