Initially drafted by the Boston Red Sox, he spent four seasons with the Pittsburgh Pirates, before ending his career with the Atlanta Braves.

He attended Ypsilanti High School and was selected an All-Big Eight basketball star at the University of Oklahoma in 1957.

Schwall faced off against NBA Hall of Famer Wilt Chamberlain three times while playing for the Sooners, outscoring him 30-16 in his final showdown against him.

He and catcher Jim Pagliaroni were traded to the Pirates for first baseman Dick Stuart and pitcher Jack Lamabe.

[2] Schwall continued to pursue his college education after becoming a professional baseball player, but never received his degree.