Bill Hands, a right-handed pitcher, had a notable career in Major League Baseball (MLB), primarily recognized for his tenure with the Chicago Cubs. Born on May 6, 1940, in Hackensack, New Jersey, Hands made his MLB debut on April 17, 1965, with the San Francisco Giants. However, it was after his trade to the Cubs following the 1965 season that he found his stride and made a significant impact in the league.

During his time with the Cubs, Hands became known for his durability and effectiveness on the mound. His most remarkable season came in 1969, a year that saw him post a 20-14 record with a 2.49 ERA, marking him as one of the top pitchers in the National League (NL). That year, he also logged 300 innings, showcasing his ability to carry a heavy workload and remain effective throughout the season. Despite his individual success, the Cubs fell short of postseason play, a disappointment in what was otherwise a standout year for Hands.

Over the course of his career with the Cubs, Hands consistently demonstrated his skills as a starting pitcher. He was known for his excellent control, a solid fastball, and an effective curveball, which he used to compile a series of successful seasons. From 1968 to 1973, he was a key component of the Cubs' rotation, contributing significantly to the team's efforts during those years.

In December 1973, Hands was traded to the Minnesota Twins, where he continued to pitch effectively, albeit with a slight decline in performance compared to his peak years with the Cubs. His tenure with the Twins was marked by his continued role as a starting pitcher, though he was unable to replicate the success he had experienced in Chicago.

Hands' final season in MLB came in 1975 with the Texas Rangers, after which he retired from professional baseball. Over his 11-year career, he compiled a record of 111-110 with a 3.35 ERA, striking out 1,128 batters over 1,849.2 innings pitched. While he may not have achieved the accolades of some of his contemporaries, Hands' contributions to the teams he played for, especially the Chicago Cubs, made him a respected and valuable pitcher during his career.

Bill Hands passed away on March 9, 2017, leaving behind a legacy as a dependable and skilled pitcher who made the most of his abilities on the baseball field. His career, characterized by its consistency and resilience, remains a noteworthy example of the dedication and hard work required to succeed at the highest levels of professional baseball.

⚾