He had finished his sixth season in the Cubs' farm system when he was called to the Majors in 1951. Ironically, 1951 had been Richards' worst pro season, as he batted only .223 in 120 games split between the Class A Des Moines Bruins and the Triple-A Springfield Cubs.
Richards finished his sixth year in the Cubs' minor league system before being called up to the Majors in 1951. Conversely, 1951 was Richards' most disappointing professional season, as he batted only .223 in 120 games played for both the Class A Des Moines Bruins and the Triple-A Springfield Cubs.