Bill Stearns (minors)

William Albin Stearns

• Bats Right, Throws Right
• Height 5' 8", Weight 170 lb.
• School University of Wyoming

• Born October 24, 1949

BR minors page

Biographical Information

Bill Stearns, the older brother of John Stearns, was on Team USA when they won Silver in the 1970 Amateur World Series. He was drafted by the New York Yankees in the 27th round of the 1971 amateur draft. Like John, he was a catcher who drew walks but he lacked his younger brother's contact-hitting, speed and power. He began his career with the Oneonta Yankees that year, hitting .220/.318/.280 and fielding .997, the best mark of any catcher in the New York-Penn League that campaign. In 1972, Stearns was with the Kinston Eagles and led the Carolina League's catchers in fielding percentage (.989, with a league-high 67 assists to boot) and hit .255/.350/.287.

In 1973, Stearns played in the Eastern League at the same time as his brother. He had a .247/.370/.322 line for the West Haven Yankees. The next year, he began a four-year run with the Syracuse Chiefs, one step away from the majors but never making it to The Show. Again in the same circuit as John, Bill batted .171/.245/.232. 1975 brought Stearns up to .248/.364/.327 but his .972 fielding was last among International League catchers. In 1976, the Syracuse standby led the IL with 13 passed balls and again saw his brother being honored as the circuit's top catcher. He hit .219/.319/.306. In his final fling with the Chiefs, Stearns saw a .247/.377/.364 line result from his efforts.

After his playing days Stearns managed for four seasons in the Texas Rangers minor league system. He spent time at the helm for the Salem Redbirds (1984-1985) and the Tulsa Drillers (1986-1987).

Sources: 1972-1978 Baseball Guides, Baseball-Reference.com, USA Baseball