Willie Horton

Willie Horton, born William Wattison Horton on October 18, 1942, in Arno, Virginia, is a revered figure in American baseball history. Nicknamed "Willie the Wonder," he made his mark as a left fielder and designated hitter in Major League Baseball from 1963 to 1980, primarily with the Detroit Tigers. Horton's career spanned eighteen years and six American League teams, during which he earned accolades such as four All-Star selections and a World Championship with the 1968 Tigers. Known for his power hitting, he recorded 20 or more home runs seven times, finishing his career with 325 home runs, ranking him among the top right-handed hitters in AL history upon his retirement. His contributions to baseball and his community have been widely recognized. The Detroit Tigers retired his number 23, and a statue in his honor stands at Comerica Park.