Bill Wight

William Robert Wight
(Lefty)

• Bats Left, Throws Left
• Height 6' 1", Weight 180 lb.
• High School McClymonds High School
• Debut April 17, 1946
• Final Game September 21, 1958
• Born April 12, 1922 in Rio Vista, CA USA
• Died May 17, 2007 in Mount Shasta, CA USA

BR page

Biographical Information

Bill Wight was signed as a high school junior by New York Yankees scout Joe Devine. Eventually he played for eight teams: his main teammates were Cass Michaels, Luke Appling and Billy Pierce of the Chicago White Sox, and Gus Triandos of the Baltimore Orioles. He was renowned for his pickoff move, and once picked off Mickey Mantle twice in a game.

Wight began his pro career in 1941. He missed the 1943-1945 seasons due to military service.

For 37 years he worked in scouting, signing Joe Morgan for the Houston Colt .45s, before moving to the Atlanta Braves where he spent 32 years. He signed Dusty Baker, Dale Murphy, Bob Horner and David Justice for the Braves among others.

Wight died of a heart attack while on vacation with his wife of 60 years. They had resided in Carmichael, CA since 1969.

Notable Achievements

• 15 Wins Seasons: 1 (1949)
• 200 Innings Pitched Seasons: 3 (1948-1950)

Related Sites

• Bill Wight at the SABR Bio Project
• American Association Almanac interview