TTM Stats
- Sent: 5/14/2022 | Received: 7/8/2022 | 54 Days
- ’90 Topps, ’91 Fleer, ’92 Fleer, ’93 Fleer Ultra (kept one card)
- Address: Home (address from Sports Card Forum)
- Sent: 12/19/2022 | Received: 1/4/2022 | 15 Days
- ’86 Topps, ’87 Topps, ’91 Topps, ’92 Donruss, ’92 Fleer, ’93 Fleer Ultra
- Address: Home (address from Sports Card Forum)
- Sent: 2/5/2024 | Received: 2/20/2024 | 15 Days
- ’84 Topps, ’85 Fleer Update, ’85 Topps, ’90 Topps, ’91 Bowman, ’93 Leaf
- Address: Home (address from Sports Card Forum)
The Story of the Autograph
In the unpredictable world of Major League Baseball, few careers are as emblematic of perseverance and adaptability as that of Bill Krueger. A lanky left-hander who bounced between teams, roles, and leagues, Krueger carved out a 13-year major league career through grit, intelligence, and a deep love for the game. His story is one of second chances, quiet contributions, and life after baseball defined by advocacy and service.
Bill Krueger was born on April 24, 1958, in Waukegan, Illinois. Unlike many of his peers, Krueger wasn’t a blue-chip baseball prodigy. In fact, he didn’t even pitch regularly in college. He played basketball at the University of Portland and only took to the mound as a walk-on after going to the school on a basketball scholarship and starting for four years. But scouts took notice of his 6-foot-5 frame and natural left-handed delivery, and in 1980, the Oakland Athletics signed him as an undrafted free agent. Krueger’s path to the majors was anything but conventional, but his tenacity eventually paid off.
Krueger made his MLB debut with the A’s in 1983. Though not overpowering, he relied on command, movement, and changing speeds to get hitters out. He had an up-and-down time in Oakland, often bouncing between the majors and minors, and was traded to the Dodgers, then released in 1986. But Krueger didn’t give up.
Over the next several years, he became the definition of a journeyman. He pitched for eight major league teams: the Oakland Athletics, Los Angeles Dodgers, Milwaukee Brewers, Seattle Mariners, Minnesota Twins, Montreal Expos, Detroit Tigers, and San Diego Padres.
Krueger’s best seasons came with the Seattle Mariners, particularly in 1991 when he went 11–8 with a 3.60 ERA. He also pitched effectively for the Detroit Tigers in 1993, posting a 3.40 ERA during a strike-shortened season. Despite never being an ace, Krueger was valued for his versatility—capable of starting, coming out of the bullpen, or mentoring younger pitchers.
In total, Krueger appeared in 301 MLB games (164 starts) from 1983 to 1995, compiling a 68–66 record with a 4.35 ERA.
After retiring, Krueger transitioned into broadcasting and quickly became a familiar face and voice in the Pacific Northwest. He served as an analyst for Seattle Mariners television and radio broadcasts, where his articulate breakdowns and firsthand experience made him a respected voice in baseball media.
But perhaps even more meaningful than his broadcasting work has been his advocacy. Krueger and his wife Jo have been deeply involved in autism awareness, inspired by their daughter, who is on the autism spectrum. Krueger became a board member and spokesperson for the Northwest chapter of Autism Speaks, dedicating his time and energy to supporting families and raising awareness for the condition.
Bill Krueger may never have been a household name or All-Star, but he represents something just as meaningful: a player who refused to quit, who adjusted and adapted, and who made the most of every opportunity. He was a reliable lefty who made an impact on every team he joined and a positive presence in every clubhouse.
Off the field, he transformed his platform into one of purpose, working to make life better for others through advocacy and education.
From a walk-on college pitcher to a 13-year MLB veteran, broadcaster, and activist—Bill Krueger’s journey is a reminder that the most inspiring stories in sports often come from those who fly under the radar but leave lasting footprints behind.
The Score on Bill Krueger – 7.0
Bill’s signature is on the edge of a small signature. I think because he signs with a regular sized marker it helps it look a little bit bigger than it actually is. Something I am noticing about his cards in general is that there’s a good portion of them that allow him to show off his signature really well. I think my favorite might be the 1992 Fleer card because it really pops AND the blue marker goes well with the team colors.
Thanks Mr. Krueger! I’m giving these a 7 overall.
I’ve had four other successful returns form him besides these. Check out these posts for more about those:
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Information gathered using Wikipedia and Baseball Reference.
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