Bill Buckner Net Worth

Bill Buckner’s Net Worth: A Look at the Life and Legacy of the Baseball Star

Bill Buckner, a name synonymous with both baseball excellence and a heartbreaking error, led a life filled with both triumphs and tribulations. Beyond the unforgettable moment in the 1986 World Series, Buckner enjoyed a lengthy and productive career in Major League Baseball. This article delves into the life, career earnings, and net worth of Bill Buckner, exploring his journey from a promising young player to a respected veteran and real estate investor.

Early Life and Baseball Career

William Joseph Buckner was born on December 14, 1949, in Vallejo, California. Raised in nearby American Canyon, Buckner displayed athletic talent from a young age, excelling in both baseball and football during his high school years at Napa High School. Drafted in the second round of the 1968 MLB draft by the Los Angeles Dodgers, Buckner quickly began his professional career. He showcased his skills in the minor leagues, earning a call-up to the Dodgers in September 1969.

Buckner’s early career with the Dodgers saw him transition between outfield and first base. He demonstrated his versatility and strong hitting abilities. In 1971, he secured a starting role and hit his first career home run. However, the emergence of Steve Garvey at first base led to Buckner primarily playing in the outfield. He played a role in the 1974 World Series, where the Dodgers lost to the Oakland Athletics.

Buckner was traded to the Chicago Cubs after the 1976 season. With the Cubs, he became a star player. He won the National League batting title in 1980 with a .324 average. He also demonstrated his defensive prowess by breaking the MLB record for assists at first base in 1982. During his time with the Cubs, he contributed a grand slam to the famous slugfest at Wrigley Field in May of 1979.

Career Earnings and Salary

Throughout his impressive 22-year MLB career, Bill Buckner’s total career earnings were approximately $3.5 million. When adjusted for inflation, this figure is roughly equivalent to $8 million. Buckner’s salary, while substantial for the time, reflects the era’s financial landscape for baseball players, especially when compared to modern-day salaries.

The Infamous 1986 World Series Error

In 1984, Buckner was traded to the Boston Red Sox. During his time with the Red Sox, he played some of the best baseball of his career. However, his time in Boston would be forever defined by a single, unfortunate moment. In Game 6 of the 1986 World Series against the New York Mets, with the Red Sox leading 3-2 in the series, Buckner was at first base when Mookie Wilson hit a ground ball that rolled through his legs, allowing the Mets to score the winning run. The Red Sox went on to lose the series in seven games.

This error made Buckner a scapegoat for many Red Sox fans, who blamed him for the team’s loss and the continuation of the supposed “Curse of the Bambino.” Despite the negativity, Buckner had been a productive player for the Red Sox, recording career highs in RBI, hits, and doubles during his time in Boston. He was released by the team midway through the 1987 season.

Post-Baseball Career and Later Life

Following his release from the Red Sox, Buckner played briefly for the California Angels and the Kansas City Royals before returning to the Red Sox for a final, short stint in 1990 before retiring. After retiring from baseball, Buckner moved to Idaho with his family. He became a successful real estate investor in the Boise area. He even developed a housing subdivision named “Fenway Park,” a nod to his baseball career.

Buckner remained involved in baseball after his playing career, managing the Brockton Rox in the Can-Am League and later serving as a hitting instructor for the Boise Hawks. He retired from baseball officially in 2014. Unfortunately, Buckner suffered from Lewy Body Dementia. He passed away on May 27, 2019, at the age of 69.

Legacy and Net Worth

At the time of his death, Bill Buckner’s net worth was estimated to be $8 million. This figure reflects his career earnings, his successful post-baseball ventures in real estate, and other investments. While his playing career was marked by a single, widely-remembered error, Buckner was a respected player with a solid career, and that earned him respect and monetary gain.

Bill Buckner’s story serves as a reminder of the highs and lows of professional sports. He had a long and productive career with numerous achievements, but his name will forever be linked to a single moment. His post-baseball success demonstrated his adaptability and business acumen, solidifying his legacy as more than just a baseball player.

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