If you have an opportunity to watch that play in its entirety, the falling away, off balance pirouetting throw back into the infield is almost as remarkable as the catch. Willie worked as a bricklayer before his playing days and his hands, wrists and forearms were tremendously strong giving him exceptional power for a player of average height and weight.He may have been the best all around player ever. Williams was a better hitter. Aaron hit more home runs. But when it came to doing it all...hitting for average, hitting for power, running, fielding, and throwing...it can be argued that no one was better. HAPPY BIRTHDAY WILLIE!!
Best all around hitter: RuthHe may have been the best all around player ever. Williams was a better hitter. Aaron hit more home runs. But when it came to doing it all...hitting for average, hitting for power, running, fielding, and throwing...it can be argued that no one was better. HAPPY BIRTHDAY WILLIE!!
Since you used the phrase "Best all around hitter" I will defer to Ruth. At a quick glance, I can't disagree with the rest.
That's a decent summation. I originally saw your post as part of someone's reply and was ready to respond in righteous indignation until I found your original post and saw the props you gave Wagner.
Fair enough re Mays, I was thinking outfielders only.
