 However, Command was a versatile performer during a 14-season (1947–1959; 1962) minor league career — playing all the infield positions, the outfield, and, late in his career, converting to catcher.Command batted left-handed, threw right-handed, stood tall and weighed ; he was a lifelong resident of Grand Rapids, Michigan and attended Creston High School (Michigan).He was in his eighth year in the Phillies' farm system when he received his first MLB opportunity in the midst of the 1954 season.