Billy Cowan

Billy Rolland Cowan

• Bats Right, Throws Right
• Height 6' 0", Weight 170 lb.
• School Bakersfield Junior College, University of Utah
• High School East Bakersfield High School
• Debut September 9, 1963
• Final Game April 24, 1972
• Born August 28, 1938 in Calhoun City, MS USA

BR page

Biographical Information

The MVP of the Pacific Coast League in 1963, Billy Cowan had one season as a regular in the ensuing 1964 season with the Chicago Cubs. Playing center field, he hit .241/.268/.404 in 139 games, slugging 19 home runs but walking only 18 times while striking out 128 times. Banished to the New York Mets, Billy's remaining big league time came as a backup outfielder and pinch-hitter. He retired in 1972 after parts of four seasons with the California Angels.

He is most remembered for his 1972 Topps baseball card, in which the photographer framed his picture in a way that makes it appear as if the halo floating around the huge A at Anaheim Stadium, is actually above Billy's head, making him look like a saint in a Renaissance painting.

Notable Achievements

• 1963 MVP Pacific Coast League Salt Lake City Bees