Will Clark Baseball Career Stats & Legacy

By Emma Wilson · March 27, 2027

Will Clark is a former Major League Baseball (MLB) first baseman, best known for his tenure with the San Francisco Giants from 1986 to 1992. A six-time All-Star and two-time Gold Glove Award winner, Clark had a career batting average of .303 with 284 home runs and 1,263 RBIs over 15 seasons (1986–2000). His peak performance came in the late 1980s and early 1990s, earning him recognition as one of the premier switch-hitters in baseball history.

Who Is Will Clark?

Will Clark, born William Anthony Clark on March 13, 1964, in New Orleans, Louisiana, was a standout professional baseball player whose career spanned 15 seasons in Major League Baseball. Primarily playing as a first baseman, Clark was renowned for his consistent hitting, defensive skill, and leadership on the field.

Early Life and College Career

Played college baseball at Mississippi State University, where he earned All-American honors.
Finished second in the 1985 Golden Spikes Award voting, recognizing the top amateur player in the U.S.
Known for his powerful swing and excellent plate discipline even before entering the pros.

Major League Career Overview

Clark was drafted by the San Francisco Giants in the first round (second overall) of the 1985 MLB Draft. He made his MLB debut in 1986 and quickly became a fan favorite due to his aggressive style and clutch performances.

Key Teams Played For

San Francisco Giants (1986–1992): Breakout years; established himself as an elite hitter.
Texas Rangers (1993–1998): High RBI production and continued offensive dominance.
Saint Louis Cardinals (1999): Played a key role in postseason push.
New York Yankees (2000): Final season, contributing off the bench during World Series run.

Awards and Achievements

Throughout his career, Will Clark received numerous accolades that reflect his excellence both offensively and defensively.

6× MLB All-Star (1988–1991, 1992, 1997)
2× Gold Glove Award winner (1989, 1990)
NLCS MVP (1989) after leading Giants past Cubs in dramatic fashion
Hit over .300 in seven full MLB seasons
Finished in Top 10 of MVP voting four times

Season	Team	Games	AVG	HR	RBI	OBP	SLG
1989	SFG	157	.300	24	95	.397	.507
1990	SFG	155	.308	25	93	.403	.505
1991	SFG	152	.328	22	87	.429	.548
1992	SFG	149	.302	24	96	.397	.516
1997	TEX	143	.305	23	94	.398	.519

Table data source:1, 2

The table highlights Will Clark's peak performance years between 1989 and 1997. During this period, he consistently posted high on-base percentages (above .397) and slugging percentages exceeding .500, indicating elite offensive production. His combination of average, power, and plate discipline made him one of the most feared hitters of his era.

Legacy and Post-Career Influence

Though not yet inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame, Will Clark remains a respected figure in baseball circles. He has been involved in broadcasting and youth development programs, particularly in the southern United States.

Inducted into the Mississippi State Athletics Hall of Fame (2006)
Named to the San Francisco Giants Wall of Fame (2007)
Has worked as a guest instructor during spring training camps
Recognized for mentoring young players transitioning from college to pro ball

Frequently Asked Questions About Will Clark Baseball

What teams did Will Clark play for in MLB?

Will Clark played for four Major League teams during his 15-season career: the San Francisco Giants (1986–1992), Texas Rangers (1993–1998), St. Louis Cardinals (1999), and New York Yankees (2000).

Why is Will Clark called 'The Thrill'?

He earned the nickname 'The Thrill' due to his exciting, aggressive playing style and ability to deliver in clutch situations. Fans and teammates admired his intensity and passion, especially during key at-bats and defensive plays.

Did Will Clark win a World Series?

No, Will Clark never won a World Series title as a player. However, he reached the 2000 World Series as a member of the New York Yankees, though he did not appear in the series and the Yankees ultimately lost to the Mets in five games.

Is Will Clark in the Baseball Hall of Fame?

As of 2025, Will Clark is not inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown. Despite strong credentials, including a .303 career average and multiple All-Star appearances, he has not received enough votes for induction through the standard ballot or Veterans Committee.

What was Will Clark’s best season statistically?

Will Clark’s best statistical season was likely 1991, when he hit .328 with a .429 on-base percentage and .548 slugging percentage. That year, he recorded 22 home runs, 87 RBIs, and finished fifth in NL MVP voting while playing for the San Francisco Giants.