Bill Melton, the Chicago White Sox All-Star third baseman and long-time broadcaster, passed away on Thursday at the age of 79 after a brief illness in Phoenix. Melton, known affectionately as "Beltin' Bill," left an indelible mark on the White Sox franchise, both on and off the field.
Melton is best remembered for his powerful bat during his playing days. In 1970 and 1971, he became the first White Sox player to hit 30 home runs in a season, an accomplishment that earned him the title of American League home run king. He hit 33 homers in both of those seasons, and he made his only All-Star appearance in 1971.
With 154 career home runs with the White Sox from 1968 to 1975, Melton set a franchise record that stood until Harold Baines surpassed him in 1987. Over his 10-year career, Melton also played for the California Angels and Cleveland Indians, finishing with 160 home runs, a .253 batting average, and 591 RBIs in 1,144 games.
A Voice for the White Sox
After retiring from playing, Melton continued his connection to the White Sox as a broadcaster. He joined WGN in 1998 as a television analyst for pre- and postgame shows. He later worked with Comcast SportsNet Chicago and NBC Sports Chicago until his retirement in 2020. Melton's warm and engaging personality, along with his candid commentary, made him a fan favorite for over two decades.
"Bill Melton enjoyed two tremendous careers with the White Sox," said Jerry Reinsdorf, chairman of the White Sox. "His first career as a home run king brought power to a franchise in a pitcher-friendly ballpark. His second career as a well-liked analyst allowed fans to see his passion for the team, win or lose. Bill's booming voice and genuine love for the game will be missed by all."
A Friend to Many
Known for his wit, honest candor, and unmatched storytelling, Melton was more than just a player or broadcaster—he was a friend to many within the baseball community. His engaging personality made him beloved by fans and teammates alike. Melton often spoke of the camaraderie he shared with his teammates, including Hall of Famer Dick Allen, who revitalized interest in the White Sox during the early 1970s.
Reflecting on his time with Allen, Melton once shared, “Dick brought a flavor to the White Sox, and the flavor was this: national attention. We would go to New York, and we would finally get writers. We started getting magazine covers because Dick Allen was on the team. That’s how much he meant.”
Mentoring Michael Jordan and Returning to Chicago
In 1993, Melton played an instrumental role in working with basketball legend Michael Jordan during Jordan's first retirement from basketball. Melton served as a hitting instructor for Jordan, helping the NBA superstar transition to baseball for a brief period.
In the 1990s, Melton returned to Chicago as a team ambassador and part-time scout. He also worked as head of the White Sox alumni relations and continued to be a key figure in the organization, fostering strong relationships with past players and fans.
Legacy and Survivors
Bill Melton leaves behind a lasting legacy with the White Sox. His passion for the game and his engaging personality shaped both the team’s history and its future. Melton is survived by his wife Tess, son Billy, daughter Jennifer, grandson, and many other family members and friends.
"Bill was a friend to many at the White Sox and around baseball," Reinsdorf added. "Our sympathies go out to his wife Tess, and all of their family and friends."
Melton's booming voice and larger-than-life presence will be missed, but his contributions to the White Sox will not be forgotten.
