Date of Birth: March 6, 1940
Zodiac Sign: Pisces
Date of Death: April 9, 2001
Biography
Wilver Dornell “Willie” Stargell, affectionately known as “Pops,” was an American professional baseball player who became an enduring icon in Major League Baseball (MLB). Born on March 6, 1940, in Earlsboro, Oklahoma, Stargell grew up in Alameda, California. He debuted in the MLB with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1962 and spent his entire 21-season career with the team. Stargell was renowned for his powerful hitting, amassing 475 home runs and 1,540 RBIs over his career. He was a seven-time All-Star and won the National League MVP award in 1979. That same year, he led the Pirates to a World Series victory, earning the World Series MVP award. Known for his leadership both on and off the field, Stargell’s legacy was cemented when the Pirates retired his number 8 and inducted him into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1988. Stargell passed away on April 9, 2001, due to complications from a stroke. His legacy continues to influence the sport and inspire new generations of players and fans.
5 Interesting Facts about Willie Stargell
1. Willie Stargell hit the first home run out of Dodger Stadium.
2. He was known for handing out “Stargell Stars” to teammates for good plays.
3. Stargell is one of the few players to have hit a ball out of the old Forbes Field.
4. He was a coach for the Atlanta Braves after retiring as a player.
5. Stargell was diagnosed with a kidney disorder in the late 1990s, which led to his health complications later in life.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Willie Stargell
1. “They give you a round bat and they throw you a round ball and they tell you to hit it square.”
2. “Life is one big transition.”
3. “I love September, especially when we’re in it.”
4. “Baseball for me was instinctive, born in the fibers.”
5. “When they start the game, they don’t yell, ‘Work ball.’ They say, ‘Play ball.’”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, Willie Stargell had an estimated net worth of around $1.5 million.
Children
Willie Stargell had two children: a son named Wilver Stargell Jr. and a daughter named Precious Stargell.
Relevant Links
3. [Willie Stargell’s Career Highlights – MLB.com](https://www.mlb.com/player/willie-stargell-123230
4. [Willie Stargell Tribute – ESPN](https://www.espn.com/classic/biography/s/Stargell_Willie.html
