Lester ‘Sonny’ Westbrooks
Class of 1990
Lester "Sonny" Westbrooks: A Legacy in Baseball and Coaching
Lester "Sonny" Westbrooks, inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1990, made his mark on baseball both as a player and as a coach, and his legacy continues to inspire future generations of athletes. Known for his dedication to the sport, Westbrooks was instrumental in shaping Huntsville’s baseball community and played a key role in the success of local and professional teams.
Westbrooks began his journey in baseball as a professional scout, working for the Atlanta Braves and the Cleveland Indians. His keen eye for talent and deep understanding of the game made him a valuable asset to both organizations. Through his scouting, he helped identify future stars, contributing to the growth and success of major league baseball.
Beyond scouting, Westbrooks’ impact was felt on the field. In 1955, he coached a Huntsville semi-pro team to the Georgia-Alabama Regional Championship, showcasing his leadership and coaching skills. His team’s success was a testament to his ability to inspire players and elevate the level of play. Westbrooks’ coaching prowess earned him recognition in the form of an individual sportsman award in Wichita, cementing his reputation as a respected figure in the baseball community.
Westbrooks was also a beloved figure in Huntsville, where he continued to contribute to the local baseball scene long after his professional career. His commitment to the sport, both at the professional and local levels, left a lasting legacy. Whether as a scout, coach, or mentor, Lester "Sonny" Westbrooks shaped the world of baseball and remains a respected and influential figure in Huntsville’s athletic history.
This content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, based on original stories written the year of the honoree's induction by Board members and other contributors. While we strive for accuracy and quality, please note that the information provided may not be entirely error-free or up-to-date. Please contact the Hall of Fame with corrections.
