Jim Williams (outfielder, born 1947) facts for kids

Jim Williams, whose full name is James Alfred Williams, was born on April 29, 1947. He is a former professional baseball player. Jim played as an outfielder, which means he played in the outfield area of the baseball field. He played for the San Diego Padres during the team's very first two seasons in Major League Baseball. Jim batted and threw with his right hand.

Jim Williams' Baseball Journey

Jim Williams went to Harry Ells High School in Richmond, California. After high school, he was chosen by the Chicago Cubs in the 20th round of the 1965 amateur draft. This is when baseball teams pick young players to join their system.

Starting His Career

Jim played for the Cubs' minor league teams for a few years. In 1967, he was traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers. A trade in baseball means players switch teams. He continued to play in the minor leagues for the Dodgers.

Joining the Padres

In 1968, the San Diego Padres team was just starting. They picked Jim Williams in a special draft called the expansion draft. This draft helps new teams get players.

The Padres sent Jim to their minor league team, the Elmira Pioneers, for the 1969 season. But later that year, in September, he got to play for the main Padres team! He played in 13 games in the major leagues.

In 1970, Jim spent most of the season playing for the Salt Lake Bees, another minor league team. But again, in September, he was called back up to the Padres. He played in 11 more games for the big league team.

Later Years in Baseball

After his time with the Padres, Jim continued to play baseball. In 1971, he played for the Lodi Padres minor league team. He also spent some time playing in the Mexican League in 1971 and 1972.

In 1973, Jim returned to the Padres' minor league system. He played for the Double-A Alexandria Aces. Jim decided to retire from playing baseball when he was 26 years old.