Leonard Williams

Career Overview

Leonard O’Neal Williams competed in the NBBA from 1986 through 2004 and remained active with the Cleveland Scrappers through 2008. Leonard built a reputation as a fierce competitor, steady leader, and one of the premier defensive players of his era.

He played primarily for the Cleveland Scrappers and also appeared with Chicago Insight at the 1993 World Series. Over 14 World Series appearances beginning in 1987, Leonard became known for his defensive range, instincts, and toughness.

While available statistics do not fully capture his dominance during the late 1980s and early 1990s, those who played alongside him consistently describe him as an impact player capable of changing a game with his glove, speed, and determination.

World Series Defensive Excellence

Leonard earned four World Series Defensive All-Star honors:

• 1995 at Denver, CO with a 5.13 putout average
• 1997 at Topeka, KS with a 4.83 putout average
• 1998 at Oklahoma City, OK with a 4.80 putout average
• 2000 at Taipei, Taiwan with a 3.40 putout average

These performances came during a physically demanding stretch of his career and reflect both his skill and perseverance.

Tournament Recognition

In addition to his World Series honors, Leonard earned All-Star recognition at multiple regional and international tournaments:

• 1987 Eastern Regional Tournament at Binghamton, NY
• 1988 Eastern Regional Tournament at Binghamton, NY
• 1990 Eastern Regional Tournament at Binghamton, NY
• 1998 Defensive MVP at the CEFB Cup Tournament in Taipei, Taiwan
• 2000 Defensive honor with 17 putouts at the Viper Classic in Columbus, OH
• 2002 Defensive recognition at the Indy Thunder Tournament in Indianapolis, IN

His 1998 Defensive MVP performance at the CEFB Cup demonstrated his ability to excel on the international stage.

Leadership and Service

Leonard served as President of the Cleveland Scrappers beginning in 1995 and as head coach from 1995 through 2001. He also completed two terms on the NBBA Board of Directors from 1997 through 2003.

His leadership extended beyond titles. Teammates credit him with countless moments of guidance, mentorship, and steady influence both on and off the field.

In 2006, Leonard was honored with the Jim Quinn Award, recognizing his dedicated service and leadership within the NBBA community.

Resilience and Character

Leonard’s competitive spirit is captured in a well-known story. During a game, an umpire accused him of seeing under his blindfold. Leonard calmly lifted it, removed his glass eye, and handed it to the umpire. The umpire responded, “I guess you’re just good.”

He was a strong contact hitter with power and speed in his early years. After being diagnosed with diabetes in 1988, nerve damage affected his speed and ability to drive the ball. Rather than step away, Leonard adjusted his game and continued contributing, earning Defensive All-Star honors well into the mid-1990s despite significant physical challenges.

He remained active because he believed it was important for his health and because he wanted to set an example. As he once said, “The thrill of hitting the ball and scoring a run gives you the incentive to try other things. You think, I can do this.”

He also told the Cleveland Plain Dealer, “Sometimes you hear that blind people can’t do anything, but we try to make that impossible.”

Legacy

Leonard O’Neal Williams embodied perseverance, leadership, and excellence. His four World Series Defensive All-Star selections, regional honors, board service, and Jim Quinn Award recognition reflect a career defined not only by talent but by courage and example.

He passed away on April 24, 2008, leaving behind a legacy of determination and a powerful “We can” attitude that continues to inspire the NBBA community.