Paul Waner, known affectionately as "Big Poison," was a right fielder whose career in Major League Baseball spanned nearly two decades. Born on April 16, 1903, in Harrah, Oklahoma, Waner grew up in a family that valued baseball, with his brother Lloyd also pursuing a career in the sport. Paul attended East Central State Teachers College in Ada, Oklahoma, where he initially played as a pitcher before transitioning to the outfield, a move that would define his professional career.

Waner began his professional journey with the San Francisco Seals of the Pacific Coast League. His performance there caught the attention of the Pittsburgh Pirates, who purchased his contract in 1925. He made his major league debut with the Pirates in 1926, quickly establishing himself as a formidable hitter. In his rookie season, Waner batted .336, setting the stage for a career characterized by consistent and impressive offensive production.

Throughout his tenure with the Pirates, Waner was known for his exceptional batting skills. He won the National League batting title three times, in 1927, 1934, and 1936. His 1927 season was particularly remarkable, as he not only led the league with a .380 batting average but also drove in 131 runs, earning him the National League Most Valuable Player Award. That same year, the Pirates reached the World Series, though they were ultimately defeated by the New York Yankees.

Waner was renowned for his ability to hit for both average and power, despite his relatively small stature. He consistently ranked among the league leaders in hits, doubles, and triples. Over his career, he amassed 3,152 hits, placing him among the elite players who have surpassed the 3,000-hit milestone. His keen eye at the plate also contributed to his high on-base percentage, as he frequently drew walks.

Defensively, Waner was a reliable right fielder, known for his strong throwing arm and solid fielding abilities. He played alongside his brother Lloyd, who was also an outfielder for the Pirates. The Waner brothers were a formidable duo in the outfield, and their combined talents were a significant asset to the team.

In 1941, Waner's time with the Pirates came to an end, and he went on to play for several other teams, including the Brooklyn Dodgers, Boston Braves, and New York Yankees. Although his later years in the league were not as productive as his prime, Waner continued to demonstrate his skill and knowledge of the game.

After retiring as a player in 1945, Waner's legacy was cemented when he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1952.

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