Last night’s game at Rickwood reminded of two impactful Twin minor leaguers that never got their chance in the majors. 

Chuck Weatherspoon and Ollie Brantley were cited by Rod Carew in his book as being a great help getting through the minors. Both started out in the negro leagues in the 50s. Brantley played for the Memphis Red Sox and Weatherspoon played for the Twin Cities Colored Giants. Both were in the Twins system for years playing and mentoring several future Twins including Rod Carew, Jim Kaat, Zoilo Versalles, Tony Oliva, Cesar Tovar, Bert Blyleven and Tom Hall.

In 1961 Chuck Weatherspoon hit a record 7 grand slams for the Wilson Tobbs besting Jim Gentile’s 5 grand slams in the majors. He played in the minor leagues with the Senators/Twins from 1957 to 1969. He hit 230 home runs in his minor league career. Above is a photo from a 1961 Home Run Derby in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Roger Maris, Weatherspoon, Clyde King, Gentile, Jack McKeon and Harmon Killebrew. McKeon was manager for Wilson after recently finishing his minor league career as a catcher. 

Ollie Brantley played for the Twins organization from 1962-1969. In his best season he was 15-8 with a 1.63 ERA playing for Orlando. Rod Carew was on that team that went 77-57. After his seasons with the Memphis Red Sox he played 17 seasons in the minors. Tom Hall credits him with his development. Ollie Brantley tells his story. 
More on Ollie Brantley 
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