Paul Waner, American baseball player and manager (d. 1965)

Paul Glee Waner (April 16, 1903 – August 29, 1965), affectionately known throughout the baseball world as "Big Poison," was an iconic American professional baseball right fielder whose illustrious career spanned nearly two decades. Playing in Major League Baseball (MLB) from 1926 to 1945, Waner etched his name into the annals of baseball history, most notably during his remarkable 15-season tenure with the Pittsburgh Pirates, the team with which he achieved his greatest triumphs.

Standing out as arguably the greatest Pirate outfielder up to the time of his retirement, Waner wasted no time making his mark. In only his second major league season, 1927, he captured the National League (NL) Most Valuable Player Award, a testament to his immediate impact. That same year, he set a still-standing team record for the Pittsburgh Pirates with an incredible 237 hits, showcasing his exceptional ability to consistently make contact and find gaps.

A Batting Maestro and Record Breaker

Waner’s prowess at the plate was undeniable, marking him as one of the era’s premier hitters. He led the National League in batting average a remarkable three times, demonstrating sustained excellence. Beyond batting titles, he twice led the NL in total hits and posted over 200 hits in eight distinct seasons between 1926 and 1934, a feat that speaks volumes about his consistency and durability during the heart of his career.

His ability to pepper the outfield with extra-base hits was also legendary. Waner set the Pirates' team record for doubles in a season on three separate occasions, further solidifying his offensive impact. His personal best and an enduring NL record for doubles in a season came in 1932, when he hammered out an astonishing 62 two-baggers.

Waner's only taste of postseason play came in the 1927 World Series, where his Pittsburgh Pirates faced the formidable "Murderers' Row" New York Yankees. Despite the Pirates ultimately falling to the legendary Yankees squad, Waner proved his mettle on the biggest stage, batting an impressive .333 during the series, underscoring his ability to perform under pressure.

Milestones and Enduring Legacy

A career highlight arrived on June 19, 1942, when Paul Waner joined an elite fraternity, becoming the seventh member of baseball’s prestigious 3,000-hit club. This monumental achievement was sealed with a single off pitcher Rip Sewell, forever cementing his status among the game’s all-time hitting greats. His career batting average stood at an impressive .333, a testament to his consistent bat control and keen eye.

While celebrated primarily for his hitting, Waner was also a distinguished defensive player in right field. He led the National League in putouts four times, a testament to his range and sure hands, and holds the career record for most putouts by a right fielder in MLB history. His offensive and defensive contributions are reflected in his all-time rankings: his 191 triples rank 10th all-time, and his 605 doubles place him 14th all-time.

In recognition of his stellar career, Paul Waner was deservingly elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1952. His family's legacy in baseball's highest honor was further cemented when his younger brother, Lloyd Waner – himself a brilliant center fielder known as "Little Poison" – was also inducted into the Hall of Fame. Together, Paul and Lloyd became only the second pair of brothers to be enshrined in Cooperstown, following the pioneering Harry and George Wright. This unique brotherly duo also holds the remarkable record for the most combined hits recorded by brothers in MLB history, tallying an astonishing 5,611 base hits between them.

The Pittsburgh Pirates, his spiritual baseball home, honored Waner's indelible impact by retiring his No. 11 jersey on July 21, 2007, ensuring his name and number will forever adorn the walls of PNC Park as a symbol of franchise greatness.

Frequently Asked Questions about Paul "Big Poison" Waner

What was Paul Waner's nickname and how did he get it?
Paul Waner's famous nickname was "Big Poison." It's widely believed to have originated from his younger brother, Lloyd, who, due to a lisp or simply youthful exuberance, referred to Paul as "Big Person," which was then misheard by a sportswriter as "Big Poison." The catchy, if slightly unusual, moniker stuck.
Which team did Paul Waner play for primarily?
Paul Waner played the vast majority and most impactful part of his career with the Pittsburgh Pirates, spending his first 15 seasons (1926-1940) with the team. He also had brief stints with the Boston Braves, Brooklyn Dodgers, and New York Yankees towards the end of his career.
What were some of Paul Waner's major career achievements?
Waner's major achievements include winning the 1927 National League MVP Award, being a three-time National League batting champion, leading the NL in hits twice, and collecting over 200 hits in eight seasons. He was the seventh player in MLB history to reach the 3,000-hit milestone and holds the career record for most putouts by a right fielder. He was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1952.
Was Paul Waner a good defensive player?
Yes, Paul Waner was an excellent defensive player in right field. He led the National League in putouts four times and holds the all-time career record for most putouts by a right fielder, showcasing his exceptional range and reliability in the outfield.
Did Paul Waner play with his brother Lloyd?
Yes, Paul Waner played alongside his younger brother, Lloyd Waner, for many years on the Pittsburgh Pirates. They formed one of the most famous brother combinations in baseball history, both known for their exceptional hitting and speed, and both are enshrined in the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
How many hits did Paul Waner have in his career?
Paul Waner accumulated 3,152 hits during his illustrious MLB career, placing him among the exclusive 3,000-hit club members. He and his brother Lloyd hold the record for the most combined hits by any two brothers in MLB history, with 5,611 hits.
When was Paul Waner's jersey number retired?
The Pittsburgh Pirates retired Paul Waner's No. 11 jersey on July 21, 2007, honoring his profound contributions to the franchise and his legendary status in baseball.