Bill Veeck

William Louis Veeck Jr. (February 9, 1914 – January 2, 1986), sometimes nicknamed "Sport Shirt", was a native of Chicago who became a franchise owner and promoter in Major League Baseball. Known best for his flamboyant publicity stunts, and the innovations he brought to the major leagues during his ownership of the Cleveland Indians, St. Louis Browns, and Chicago White Sox, Veeck was the last owner to purchase a baseball franchise without an independent fortune, and is responsible for many significant contributions to baseball.

Milwaukee Brewers

In 1941 he left Chicago and purchased the American Association Milwaukee Brewers, in a partnership with former Cubs star and manager Charlie Grimm. Veeck, constantly producing new promotional gimmicks, gave away live animals, scheduled morning games for night shift workers, staged weddings at home plate, and even sent Grimm a birthday cake containing a left-handed pitcher. After winning three pennants in five years, Veeck sold his Milwaukee franchise in 1945 for a $275,000 profit.

Related Topics:
1941 - American Association - Milwaukee Brewers - Charlie Grimm - Night shift - Wedding - Birthday cake - 1945

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While a half-owner of the Brewers, Veeck served for nearly three years in the Marines during World War II in an artillery unit. Injuries he suffered after a recoiling artillery piece crushed his leg eventually led to the amputation of his foot, and later, the rest of his leg.

Related Topics:
Marines - World War II - Amputation

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According to Veeck's memoirs, in 1942, before entering the military, he acquired backing to purchase the Philadelphia Phillies, planning to stock the club with stars from the Negro Leagues. He revealed his plans to Commissioner Kenesaw Mountain Landis, who "vetoed" the idea by arranging for another owner to buy the team. Although this story has long been part of accepted baseball lore, in recent years, its accuracy has been challenged by researchers.

Related Topics:
1942 - Philadelphia Phillies - Negro Leagues - Kenesaw Mountain Landis

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