One of the Negro leagues' most powerful hitters, his career batting average of .351 ranks him among the top five players.

As a teenager, he moved to Foggy Bottom in Washington, D.C.[2] The first mention of Wilson's early life was his induction into the United States Army on June 29, 1918, where he served in World War I as a corporal in Company D, 417th Service Battalion.

[6] In the 1934 Negro National League playoffs, Wilson struck an umpire but was not removed from the game.

The incident raised questions about the league's ability to enforce rules against the top players and the most influential teams.

[6] Struggling with his fielding skills, Wilson often blocked or knocked down batted balls rather than catching them with his glove.

He had an unusual physique, standing 5'8" and weighing 195 pounds with a large torso, a small waist, bowed legs and pigeon toe.

During a Negro World Series game, Wilson began to draw circles in the dirt and was said to be unaware of his surroundings.

[13] Hall of Fame officials did not think that Wilson had any living relatives, but a great-niece heard about his scheduled induction and was able to attend the ceremony on his behalf.