Wilbur “Lefty” Reeser
1997
Baseball
Outstanding all- around athlete at Wilson High School in 1930s graduating in 1935 as the President’s (Wilson’s nickname before Bulldogs) top athlete in soccer, basketball and baseball. Leading scorer in county in basketball. Led team to a title in baseball. Top pitcher in county, 1934 and 1935 with 24-2 record. Signed by Connie Mack to a contract with Philadelphia Athletics. Played for Williamsport Grays (1936). Had 42-14 pitching record for the A’s farm clubs. Earned nickname of “Iron Man” after leaving pro ball temporarily in 1942 and playing for Parish Steel of the Reading Industrial League. Won county title. Lefty pitched a number of double-headers. Signed with Philadelphia Phillies in 1943 by Jocko Collins. Earned a 15-9 record at Utica. In 1947, signed with Washington Senators. Played at Atlanta and Charleston. Compiled a pro career pitching record of 92-25 over 17 seasons. Entered sporting goods business upon retirement and was a Phillies Scout. He also officiated baseball for 15 years. Coached Shillington Legion team in late 1950s.
Deceased