In 1916, when he was 14, his family moved to New York City, where Thompson attended George Washington High School and Columbia University.

[2] After his playing days, Thompson managed in the minor leagues before becoming an assistant farm system director for the Brooklyn Dodgers.

Thompson continued as head of the club's extensive player development system after the Dodgers moved to Los Angeles in 1958.

The regular and secondary phases of the 1968 June lottery netted the Dodgers Steve Garvey, Ron Cey, Bill Buckner, Bobby Valentine, Joe Ferguson, Doyle Alexander and others.

[5] He was succeeded by the club's scouting director, Al Campanis, as general manager, formally titled vice president, player personnel.