John Wockenfuss

Johnny Bilton Wockenfuss (February 27, 1949 – August 19, 2022), sometimes known by the nicknames "Fuss" and "Johnny B.", was an American professional baseball player and minor league manager who played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Detroit Tigers and Philadelphia Phillies. He was known for his strong throwing arm, unorthodox batting stance, and ability to play at multiple positions.

Wockenfuss began his baseball career as a pitcher in high school. He was drafted by the Washington Senators in the 42nd round of the 1967 amateur draft. Wockenfuss spent seven seasons in the Senators / Texas Rangers' farm system, before being traded to the St. Louis Cardinals in June 1973, where he remained in the minor leagues. He was then acquired by the Detroit Tigers from the Cardinals in December 1973 and played ten seasons for the club from 1974 to 1983, first as a backup catcher and then as a utility player whose assignments included first baseman, designated hitter, outfielder, third baseman, and pinch hitter. Wockenfuss was traded to the Philadelphia Phillies in 1984 and played two seasons there, playing principally at first base, catcher, and as a pinch hitter.

After playing one more season (1986) in A-ball, Wockenfuss managed in the minor leagues for several years. He served four years in the Tigers farm system (1987–1990), two years in the Pittsburgh Pirates' farm system (1992–1993), and two years with the Albany-Colonie Diamond Dogs (1996–1997). He was inducted into the Delaware Sports Hall of Fame in 1993.