Deaths on January 22

Billy Werber, American baseball player (b. 1908)

William Murray Werber: A Century of Baseball and Beyond

William Murray Werber, born on June 20, 1908, etched his name into Major League Baseball (MLB) history as a prominent third baseman whose career spanned the tumultuous era of the Great Depression and the eve of World War II. Remarkable for his longevity, Werber lived to the extraordinary age of 100, passing away on January 22, 2009, making him one of the longest-lived former MLB players.

A Journey Across Five Major League Teams

Known for his versatility and consistent performance, Werber played for five different MLB franchises during his professional career, which began in 1930. His journey saw him contribute to both American and National League teams, leaving an indelible mark with each:

• New York Yankees (1930, 1933): Werber began his big-league career with the iconic Yankees, playing briefly in 1930 and then for a portion of the 1933 season.
• Boston Red Sox (1933–1936): He became a key fixture for the Red Sox after being traded from the Yankees in 1933, spending four seasons as their primary third baseman.
• Philadelphia Athletics (1937–1938): Werber continued his career with Connie Mack's Athletics, where he maintained his strong defensive and baserunning contributions.
• Cincinnati Reds (1939–1941): His time with the Cincinnati Reds marked a peak in his career, particularly the memorable 1939 season.
• New York Giants (1942): Werber concluded his playing days with the Giants, bringing his extensive MLB tenure to a close.

Defensive Prowess at the Hot Corner

As a right-handed thrower and batter, William Werber was celebrated for his exceptional defensive skills at third base, often referred to as the "hot corner" due to the intense plays originating from it. His ability to handle scorching line drives, field bunts, and make strong throws across the diamond made him a reliable asset for his teams. Werber consistently ranked among the league leaders in various defensive metrics:

• He once led American League third basemen in putouts, which involve an infielder tagging a runner or a base for an out, or catching a fly ball. This highlights his direct involvement in retiring batters and runners.
• He also led American League third basemen in assists once, demonstrating his ability to field a batted ball and throw it to another fielder (like the first baseman or shortstop) to secure an out.
• In the National League, Werber showcased his defensive mastery by leading third basemen once each in assists, double plays, and fielding percentage. Leading in double plays underscores his coordination and quick thinking in turning two outs on a single play, a critical defensive maneuver. A high fielding percentage indicates his reliability and low error rate, making him an exceptionally secure presence at third base.

A Dominant Baserunner and Offensive Catalyst

Beyond his defensive acumen, Werber was renowned as a strong baserunner, a skill that significantly contributed to his teams' offensive strategies. His speed and intelligence on the basepaths were a constant threat to opposing pitchers and catchers:

• He led the American League in stolen bases three times, a testament to his agility and tactical awareness in advancing runners and putting pressure on the defense. This placed him among the premier basestealers of his era.
• His offensive peak came during his tenure with the Cincinnati Reds, particularly in 1939. That year, Werber led the National League in runs scored, crossing home plate more often than any other player in the league. His impressive offensive output was instrumental as the Cincinnati Reds secured the National League pennant, a significant achievement for the franchise, though they ultimately fell to the formidable New York Yankees in the World Series.

Beyond the Baseline: A Life of Achievement

Born in Berwyn Heights, Maryland, William Werber's story extends beyond his decorated baseball career. After retiring from professional baseball, he pursued higher education, earning a law degree from Duke University. He then embarked on a successful career as a lawyer, a testament to his sharp intellect and diverse talents. His remarkable longevity and post-baseball achievements solidify his legacy not just as a gifted athlete, but as a well-rounded individual who continued to contribute meaningfully to society for decades after his playing days.

Frequently Asked Questions About William Murray Werber

Which teams did William Werber play for during his MLB career?

William Werber played for the New York Yankees (1930, 1933), Boston Red Sox (1933–1936), Philadelphia Athletics (1937–1938), Cincinnati Reds (1939–1941), and New York Giants (1942).

What were some of William Werber's key achievements in baseball?

Werber was a standout defensively, leading American League third basemen once each in putouts and assists, and National League third basemen once each in assists, double plays, and fielding percentage. Offensively, he led the AL in stolen bases three times and led the NL in runs in 1939, helping the Cincinnati Reds win the pennant.

How long did William Murray Werber live?

William Murray Werber lived to be over 100 years old, born on June 20, 1908, and passing away on January 22, 2009.

What did William Werber do after his baseball career?

After his baseball career, William Werber pursued a law degree from Duke University and went on to have a successful career as a lawyer.