On September 3, 1924, Bill Greason was born, and in 2024, he is celebrating his 100th birthday.
Greason hasn’t taken life for granted, and his mark on the world and on baseball has not been taken for granted either.
“I’m just thankful that God allowed me to be here this long,” Greason said. “I’m thankful for life: God’s been good to me, and he is good to me. Allowed me to live the age that I am and to have the activities of my life. It’s surprising to me. I never thought I’d live this long after being in two wars, baseball and traveling. It’s been a blessing.”
For the world of baseball, Greason was a trailblazer. In 1954, he signed with the Cardinals and became the first Black pitcher for the team. Prior to his time with the Cardinals, he made his professional debut with the Nashville Black Vols in 1947. A year later, he joined the Birmingham Black Barons from 1948-51.
His involvement in baseball began during his childhood, where he grew up playing games at the local sandlot. After falling in love with the game, he became serious about his pitching abilities, and perfected his game through observation and repetition.