Pitcher Nick Willhite began his major league career with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1963 at the age of 22. In 1965, during his second stint with L.A., Whillhite was part of a World Championship team, but he did not pitch in the World Series.
During his five year career, Willhite pitched for the Dodgers, the Washington Senators, the California Angels, and the New York Mets. Coming to New York in a June 10th, 1967 trade that sent pitcher Jack Hamilton to the Angels, Willhite pitched in just four games for the Mets.
In his less than Amazin’ debut, Willhite started the second game of a doubleheader at Wrigley Field. By the time the Cubs claimed the victory in the 18-10 game, Willhite was long gone. He allowed five runs on five hits and was out of the game before the third inning was over.
Pitching out of the bullpen, Whillhite appeared in three more games. His final major league appearance was on June 23rd, 1967. Willhite came on in the second inning for Bob Shaw, and gave up two runs on two hits in an inning and a third. The Mets lost to the Atlanta Braves 12-4.
Willhite continued playing in the minors through the 1970 season before retiring. He passed away in 2008.
Beckett Media lists 11 Nick Willhite baseball cards in their database. The only one that shows the pitcher as a New York Met is his 1991 Wiz Mets card. I picked up my signed Nick Willhite 1966 Topps baseball card from a dealer at a card show in 2010 for around $10.
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