MLB’s One-Season Wonders: Bill Hall and 2006
Those who followed baseball closely throughout the 2000s are surely aware of utility man Bill Hall. He was always dependable and solid, though his numbers were never outstanding. Yet in 2006, he shocked everyone with a power surge that sticks out like a sore thumb.
Before 2006
The Brewers needed versatility. For years, they were a forgotten franchise, without any pieces who could give them a playoff push. Along came Hall in 2002. Nothing really seemed to click for the utility man, yet promise came in 2005, with a sweet .291 average as well as 17 homers.
Hall helped push Milwaukee to a .500 for the first time shockingly since 1992(!). This article isn’t about that season. Hall was beneficial to Milwaukee’s success, but the following year was so out of the ordinary that it’s worth zeroing in on.
2006
Prior to 2006, Hall never hit more than 18 home runs in a professional season. He was never a huge power threat and actually had more credit from stealing bases. Yet in 2006, Hall hit 35 home runs. 35! That was more than fellow teammate and big-time power threat, Prince Fielder.
Not only did he hit 35 dingers but he also slashed a very respectable .270/.345/.553 with a career-best, 125 OPS+. His WAR of 5.8 led the team that season and ranked him eighth amongst position players in the NL. Those 35 home runs ranked Hall 10th in the league as well.
Shockingly, with all the talent in the league that season, Bill didn’t receive any MVP votes nor a nod for Silver Slugger. As a result, his greatest offensive year is usually forgotten by the general baseball fan, and it saddens me.
After 2006
There was hope he’d be able to follow up the following season. The Brewers gave him a 4-year $24 million deal. Hall’s offense dropped off substantially in 2007, batting only .254/.315/.425 with 14 homers. He also had a below-average OPS+ of 89.
The next two seasons weren’t much better. Halfway through 2009, Bill’s average was sitting at .201 and the Brewers decided to trade him to the Mariners.
He retained his reputation as a utility player, yet never found the bat that carried him in 2006. He bounced around finding homes in Boston, Houston, and finally, Baltimore. He signed a few minor league deals with the Angels and played Indy ball yet struggled mightily.
Hall finally hung up the cleats after signing a one-day contract with the Brewers in 2019.
***
SUBSCRIBE to the Vendetta YouTube Channel!
SHOP for Vendetta Merch!
SUPPORT Vendetta on Patreon!
CLICK HERE for more of our Vendetta MLB content.
