Billy Harrell, American baseball player and scout (b. 1928)

William "Bill" Harrell, a versatile infielder whose professional baseball journey spanned the Negro Leagues and Major League Baseball, left an indelible mark on the sport and his community. Born on July 18, 1928, Harrell's career as a right-handed batter and thrower saw him don the uniforms of the Cleveland Indians and Boston Red Sox between 1955 and 1961. Standing at 6 feet 1 inch (1.85 m) and weighing 180 pounds (82 kg), Harrell was known for his adaptability across the infield, a skill that made him a valuable asset as a reserve player.

An Early Path Through Collegiate Sports and the Negro Leagues

Harrell’s athletic foundation was built at Siena College, an institution where he would later achieve significant recognition. His professional baseball career commenced in 1951, a pivotal era in baseball history, when he joined the Birmingham Black Barons of the Negro Leagues. This experience provided a crucial stepping stone for many talented Black athletes during a time when Major League Baseball was only beginning its integration process. His talent quickly caught the eye of MLB scouts, leading to his signing by the Cleveland Indians in 1952, marking his official entry into organized baseball’s minor league system and setting the stage for his big-league debut.

A Versatile Infielder in the Major Leagues

Over a four-season Major League career, William Harrell established himself as a reliable utility infielder. His time in the big leagues included stints with the Cleveland Indians (1955, 1957–1958) and the Boston Red Sox (1961). In 173 games, Harrell posted a career batting average of .231, accumulating 79 hits in 342 at-bats. His offensive contributions included eight home runs, 26 runs batted in (RBI), 54 runs scored, seven doubles, one triple, and an impressive 17 stolen bases, showcasing his speed and offensive threat on the base paths.

Defensively, Harrell’s versatility was a hallmark of his game. He appeared in 151 games as an infielder, demonstrating proficiency at nearly every position. He spent the majority of his time at shortstop (77 games) and third base (62 games), but also competently filled in at second base (8 games) and first base (3 games). Furthermore, he even made a brief appearance in right field for one game, underscoring his adaptability. Across these various defensive assignments, Harrell maintained a collective fielding percentage of .952, a testament to his consistent and dependable glove work.

Beyond the Playing Field: Scouting and Enduring Honors

Following the conclusion of his professional playing career, which extended through the Boston Red Sox farm system until 1966, Harrell remained connected to the game he loved. He briefly transitioned into a scouting role for the Boston Red Sox, contributing his keen eye for talent to the organization that had been one of his Major League teams.

Harrell’s legacy, however, extended far beyond his professional baseball career, particularly within the community and at his alma mater, Siena College. In 1966, he received a prestigious honor when he was inducted into the Siena Athletics Hall of Fame, becoming only the third alumnus to be recognized in this manner. His impact was further acknowledged in 2000, when the Times Union newspaper named him among the top 10 athletes of the 20th Century for the Capital Region of New York, a significant recognition of his athletic achievements and influence in the area.

A truly unique distinction came on January 13, 2006, when William Harrell became the first Siena Saints basketball player to have his jersey number, #10, officially retired by the school. This rare honor highlights his exceptional talent not just in baseball, but also on the basketball court, showcasing his remarkable multi-sport athleticism during his collegiate years.

Final Years and Lasting Memory

William Harrell passed away peacefully at his home in Albany, New York, on May 6, 2014, at the age of 85. He was laid to rest at Oakwood Cemetery in Troy, New York, leaving behind a legacy as a respected athlete, a versatile baseball player, and a celebrated alumnus of Siena College.

Frequently Asked Questions About William Harrell

What Major League Baseball teams did William Harrell play for?

William Harrell played for the Cleveland Indians (1955, 1957–1958) and the Boston Red Sox (1961) during his MLB career.

What was William Harrell's primary position?

Harrell was primarily a reserve infielder, most frequently appearing at shortstop and third base, but also playing second and first base, demonstrating considerable versatility.

Did William Harrell play in the Negro Leagues?

Yes, he began his professional baseball career in 1951 with the Birmingham Black Barons of the Negro Leagues before being signed by the Cleveland Indians in 1952.

What significant honors did William Harrell receive from Siena College?

William Harrell was inducted into the Siena Athletics Hall of Fame in 1966 and, notably, became the first Siena Saints basketball player to have his jersey number (#10) retired by the school on January 13, 2006.

When did William Harrell pass away?

William Harrell passed away on May 6, 2014, at his home in Albany, New York, at the age of 85.