The following art and text by Michael Hogue of The Dallas Morning News is reproduced here in The Pecan Park Eagle by written permission from Michael Hogue. Today’s portrait features one more look at another Texan, shortstop Willie Wells. It is our “Offering 4″ in this series and a continuation of this fine Texas artist’s work, Portraits of the Negro Leagues. Thank you again, Michael, for allowing TPPE to further share the beauty and joy of your work with those who care about the Negro Leagues and their place in baseball history.
For more on Michael Hogue’s work, check out his website:
Willie "Devil" Wells, Shortstop, Negro Leagues, 1924-1948, Hall of Fame 1997.
Willie “Devil” Wells by Michael Hogue of The Dallas Morning News.
“Wells, a native of Austin, combined superior batting skills, slick fielding and speed on the bases to become an eight-time All-Star in the Negro Leagues. A power-hitting shortstop with sure hands, he ranks among the all-time Negro League leaders in doubles, triple, home runs and stolen bases. He recorded a lifetime .392 batting average against major leaguers in exhibition games.
“He is also credited with being the first player to wear a batting helmet. One day after being knocked unconscious by a bean ball, the story goes, Wells borrowed a hard hat before a game and wore it to the plate.”
Houston, Baseball, & Other Musings.
The Pecan Park Eagle 