• Card series: Pilgrims
• City: Chicago
• Team: Giants (IND)
• League: Independent
• Hall: National Baseball Hall of Fame

Joseph Williams (1886-1951) may have been the best pitcher never to appear in the major leagues. He starred in the Negro Leagues and in Cuba and Mexico over a 27-year career. His best year was 1914 (an amazing 41-3). Playing against MLB players in barnstorming games, Williams compiled a 20-7 record over the “best” in the game.

• At age 44 in 1930, closed his career with a 1-0, 12-inning win striking out 27 KC Monarchs
• That same year, in his only confrontation with the rising star, beat Satchel Paige 1-0.
• Elected to Hall of Fame: 1999