Wes Westrum's journey in professional baseball began when he joined the New York Giants as a catcher. Born in Clearbrook, Minnesota, Westrum's early years in baseball were marked by his strong defensive skills and ability to handle pitchers effectively. He made his major league debut with the Giants in 1947, quickly establishing himself as a reliable presence behind the plate.
Throughout his playing career, Westrum was known for his defensive prowess and leadership on the field. He was a key component of the Giants' roster during the late 1940s and 1950s, a period that included the team's memorable 1951 season. That year, the Giants famously overcame a significant deficit to win the National League pennant, culminating in Bobby Thomson's "Shot Heard 'Round the World." Westrum's role as a catcher was crucial in managing the pitching staff and providing stability to the team's defense.
Westrum's skills were recognized with two All-Star selections in 1952 and 1953. His ability to work with pitchers and call games was highly regarded, and he was often praised for his understanding of the game. Despite not being a standout hitter, his contributions to the team were invaluable, particularly in handling the Giants' talented pitching staff.
After retiring as a player in 1957, Westrum transitioned into coaching and management. He remained with the Giants organization, which had relocated to San Francisco, serving as a coach. His deep knowledge of the game and experience as a player made him a natural fit for a coaching role, where he could impart his wisdom to younger players.
In 1965, Westrum took on the role of manager for the New York Mets, a team that was still in its formative years. He succeeded Casey Stengel and was tasked with developing a competitive team from a roster that had struggled in its early seasons. Westrum's tenure as Mets manager lasted until 1967, during which he worked to instill discipline and a winning mentality in the team. Although the Mets did not achieve significant success during his managerial stint, Westrum's efforts laid the groundwork for future improvements.
Westrum returned to the Giants organization in 1972, this time as a coach. His familiarity with the team and its history made him a valuable asset in guiding players and contributing to the team's strategies. He continued to serve in various coaching capacities until 1975, when he retired from professional baseball.
Throughout his career, Wes Westrum was respected for his knowledge of the game and his ability to mentor players.
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