"The Browns obtained Bill in a reported $150,000 deal with the Dodgers. He was with Ft. Worth of the Texas League in 1951 and '52. In the latter season, he led the Texas League in fielding and stolen bases and was given the Most Valuable Player award.
A slick fielder, Bill broke in with Three Rivers in 1948, went to Nashua in '49 and played for Pueblo of the Western Association in '50."
-1953 Topps No. 166
"The St. Louis Browns acquired him in October 1952 from the Brooklyn Dodger organization in a deal reported to be in the vicinity of $150,000. He is tabbed as one of the future greats. Billy was in 154 games for the 1953 Browns, hitting .219.
Billy played prep ball at Indiana, Pa. and also for Indiana State (Pa.) Teachers College. While a sophomore at Indiana Teachers he was invited by the Dodgers to attend a tryout camp and wound up signing with the team."
-1954 Bowman No. 5
"Billy came to the majors last season and lived up to his reputation as a fine fielder. In 1953 he was the busiest shortstop in the American League, handling the most chances, leading the league in assists and ranking third in double plays. One of Billy's big thrills as a freshman was taking part in a triple play.
In spring training of 1952 with Ft. Worth, Billy broke three ribs. With no practice he started on Opening Day and played the entire season. And was voted the Most Valuable Player of the Texas League."
-1954 Topps No. 48
"Bill came to the Yankees for the 1955 season in a big winter deal between the Yanks and Orioles. He is a highly regarded young ball player, once a member of the Dodgers organization.
In 1954 he appeared in 125 games for the Orioles and hit .243. He had 100 hits for 125 total bases, including nine doubles, five triples and two homers. He batted in 27 runs and scored 28. 1953 was his first season in the majors, and the [then St. Louis Browns] purchased his contract from Fort Worth for $90,000 and three players."
-1955 Bowman No. 69
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