Billy Hamilton, known for his exceptional speed on the base paths, became a well-recognized figure in Major League Baseball during his career. Born on September 9, 1990, in Taylorsville, Mississippi, Hamilton's journey to the major leagues began when he was drafted by the Cincinnati Reds in the second round of the 2009 MLB Draft. His speed and agility quickly set him apart in the minor leagues, where he gained attention for his base-stealing prowess.

Hamilton made his MLB debut with the Cincinnati Reds on September 3, 2013. In his first month in the majors, he showcased his extraordinary base-stealing ability, swiping 13 bases in just 13 games. This impressive start set the tone for his career, as he became one of the most feared base stealers in the league. Over the next several seasons, Hamilton consistently ranked among the league leaders in stolen bases, using his speed to disrupt opposing pitchers and defenses.

Throughout his time with the Reds, Hamilton's defensive skills in center field were also highly regarded. His speed allowed him to cover significant ground, making difficult catches look routine. Despite his struggles at the plate, where he often posted lower batting averages, his defensive capabilities and base-stealing threat kept him in the lineup.

In 2018, Hamilton's tenure with the Reds came to an end when he was non-tendered by the team, making him a free agent. He subsequently signed with the Kansas City Royals for the 2019 season. His time with the Royals was short-lived, as he was designated for assignment in August of that year. Shortly thereafter, he was picked up by the Atlanta Braves, where he finished the season.

The following year, Hamilton signed a minor league contract with the San Francisco Giants. However, before the season began, he was traded to the New York Mets. His stint with the Mets was brief, and he was eventually claimed off waivers by the Chicago Cubs. The 2020 season, shortened by the COVID-19 pandemic, saw Hamilton playing for multiple teams, a testament to his continued value as a defensive replacement and pinch runner.

In 2021, Hamilton signed with the Chicago White Sox, where he continued to contribute primarily as a defensive specialist and base runner. His role with the White Sox was similar to his previous teams, providing speed off the bench and solid defense in the outfield. Despite limited playing time, Hamilton remained a fan favorite for his hustle and enthusiasm on the field.

Throughout his career, Hamilton's speed was his defining characteristic. He stole over 300 bases in his MLB career, consistently ranking among the league leaders in that category. While his offensive numbers were often below league average, his ability to change the game with his legs and his glove made him a valuable asset to every team he played for.

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