1975 Topps - Earl Williams

Earl Williams is considered by some, to be one of the worst trades in Orioles history. Behind the #1 worst trade, the Glenn Davis for three future all-stars, Finley, Harnish & Schilling trade. But that’s a different story. 

In 1973, despite criticism from multiple Orioles players including Jim Palmer, Baltimore traded away 20 game winner Pat Dobson, along with Davey Johnson, Roric Harrison, and Johnny Oates for sub-par defensive catcher Earl Williams. Granted he was coming off a fairly productive offensive season belting 28 home runs with 87 RBIs. It was a trade backed by then Orioles manager Earl Weaver who was a big fan of the long ball and hoped Earl would bring some of that power to Baltimore. Weaver was quoted as saying, "Get me Earl Williams and we’ll win the pennant”.

In the end Williams played as advertised, poor defense and below average offense. But it would be his reported poor attitude that would end his stay in Baltimore. Arriving late to multiple games, arguing with fans and the "not a team player" tag Williams would never shake.

Earl Williams Orioles Stats:   BA: .245    HR: 36    Hits: 214    RBI: 135    AB: 872