William "Skeeter" Barnes, known for his utility role in Major League Baseball, had a career that spanned several teams and showcased his adaptability on the field. Born on March 8, 1957, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Barnes was drafted by the Cincinnati Reds in the 16th round of the 1978 amateur draft. His journey through the major leagues was marked by perseverance and a willingness to play wherever he was needed.
Barnes made his MLB debut with the Cincinnati Reds on September 6, 1983. Although his time with the Reds was brief, it marked the beginning of a career that would see him play for multiple teams. After his stint with Cincinnati, Barnes spent time with the Montreal Expos, St. Louis Cardinals, and Detroit Tigers. His ability to play multiple positions made him a valuable asset to these teams, even if he wasn't always in the starting lineup.
During his time with the Detroit Tigers, Barnes found a more stable role. He played with the Tigers from 1991 to 1994, appearing in over 100 games in both the 1991 and 1992 seasons. His versatility was on full display as he played in the outfield and infield, filling in wherever the team needed him. Barnes' batting average during his time with the Tigers was respectable, and he contributed to the team's efforts with his consistent play.
Barnes' career statistics include a .259 batting average, 14 home runs, and 83 RBIs over 353 games. While these numbers may not stand out in the annals of baseball history, they reflect a player who was reliable and ready to step in when called upon. His role as a utility player meant that he often came off the bench, providing depth to the roster and offering managers flexibility in their lineups.
After retiring from playing, Barnes transitioned into coaching and player development roles. He worked within the Tampa Bay Rays organization, sharing his knowledge and experience with younger players. His post-playing career demonstrated his continued commitment to the sport and his desire to help shape the next generation of baseball talent.
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