July 15, 2000

The Detroit Tigers retired Willie Horton’s uniform number.

“Willie the Wonder” Horton was raised in a Detroit housing project and overcame adversity to become a Tiger hometown hero. He batted .326 in his first season with the Tigers and had 100 or more RBIs in 1965 and 1966. He threw out Lou Brock at home plate in the pivotal Game Five of the 1968 World Series. He led the team in home runs in 1968, 1969 and 1975 and was elected to four All-Star teams as a Tiger.

Thank you Michigan History Magazine for this glimpse into our past. See more at www.michiganhistorymagazine.com.