Will Clark

Will Clark is a former professional baseball first baseman who played in Major League Baseball for 15 seasons, known for his distinguished hitting and defensive skills. After winning the Golden Spikes Award in 1985 as the nation’s top amateur player and earning a silver medal representing the United States in the 1984 Summer Olympics, Will Clark went on to make his Major League Baseball debut with the San Francisco Giants on April 8, 1986. Notably, he hit a home run off Nolan Ryan in his first professional at-bat, quickly establishing himself as a formidable hitter. Throughout his tenure with the Giants from 1986 to 1993, Clark was recognized for his aggressive playing style, earning him the nickname ‘Will The Thrill’ and multiple accolades, including NL Player of the Week honors in August and September 1987, and NL Player of the Month in June 1988.

He was also recognized as AL Player of the Week in May 1994. He later played for the Baltimore Orioles from 1999 to 2000, where he achieved his 2000th career hit in 1999, before concluding his distinguished 15-season MLB career with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2000. Clark retired with a career .303 batting average, 284 home runs, and 1,205 runs batted in over 7,173 at-bats.

In 2022, the San Francisco Giants honored Clark’s lasting impact on the franchise by retiring his uniform number 22. Since his retirement from playing, Clark has remained actively involved in baseball, serving as a Special Assistant in the Giants’ front office. Beyond his professional commitments, he dedicates his efforts to advocating for autism awareness, further solidifying his enduring legacy within and beyond the sport.