George Mitterwald – Baseball Player Biography, Career, Net Worth Information

George Mitterwald built a solid career as a catcher in Major League Baseball through the 1960s and 1970s. He played for teams like the Minnesota Twins, Chicago Cubs, and Oakland Athletics before he finally hung up his cleats in 1977.

Mitterwald spent eleven seasons in the big leagues and became known as a reliable defensive catcher. He handled pitching staffs well and added some offense when teams needed it. His career covered some of baseball’s most exciting decades, including the expansion era and the rise of free agency.

Let’s take a look at Mitterwald’s baseball life, from his early days to his professional career highlights. We’ll check out his most productive seasons, his roles with different teams in the 1970s, and what he did after leaving the game that shaped so much of his life.

Early Life and Background

George Mitterwald grew up in a baseball-loving family in Berkeley, California. Early exposure to the sport shaped his future.

His education and natural athleticism steered him toward professional baseball in the 1960s.

Family and Hometown

George Eugene Mitterwald was born on June 7, 1945, in Berkeley, California. He grew up in a middle-class family that always supported his sports interests.

Berkeley had a strong baseball culture in the 1950s and early 1960s. The city offered plenty of youth leagues and school programs for young players.

His family encouraged him from the start. They came to his games and helped him chase his dream of playing pro baseball.

The Bay Area’s mild climate let Mitterwald play year-round. That meant he got more practice than kids from colder places.

Education and Early Interests

Mitterwald went to Berkeley High School and played varsity baseball. People noticed his strong arm and how he handled catching duties.

His coaches saw his catching talent early on. He worked hard to improve his batting and learn the game.

He tried other sports but focused mainly on baseball. His grades were good enough to keep college as an option.

During high school, he went to baseball camps and clinics. Those experiences helped him learn from experienced coaches and scouts.

Path to Professional Baseball

Major league scouts started watching Mitterwald in his senior year. They liked his defense and his strong arm.

The Chicago Cubs drafted him in 1963. He signed his first pro contract at 18.

He started out in the Cubs’ minor league system with a rookie league team in the Midwest.

Mitterwald spent a few years developing in the minors. He worked on his hitting while keeping his defense sharp.

Professional Baseball Career Overview

George Mitterwald played in the majors for 11 seasons from 1966 to 1977. He caught for three teams and earned a reputation as a reliable defensive player.

Major League Debut

George Mitterwald made his big league debut with the Minnesota Twins on September 3, 1966. He was just 20 when he first stepped onto a major league field.

He only appeared in two games his rookie season and got his first at-bat against the California Angels.

He spent most of 1966 and 1967 in the minors, working on his skills. The Twins called him up occasionally to get him some experience.

His first full major league season came in 1968. That year, he played 73 games and started to make a name for himself as a dependable backup.

Teams Played For

Mitterwald spent most of his career with the Minnesota Twins from 1966 to 1973. He filled both backup and starting catcher roles in Minneapolis.

The Twins traded him to the Chicago Cubs in December 1973. He played two seasons with Chicago in 1974 and 1975.

He finished his career with the Oakland Athletics in 1976 and 1977. The A’s had just come off their championship years.

Career Team Breakdown:

• Minnesota Twins (1966-1973): 8 seasons
• Chicago Cubs (1974-1975): 2 seasons
• Oakland Athletics (1976-1977): 2 seasons

Career Milestones

Mitterwald had his best offensive season in 1970 with the Twins. He hit .236 with 12 home runs and 42 RBIs in 108 games.

He caught 1,024 games during his 11 years in the majors. Managers valued his defensive skills and trusted him behind the plate.

He finished with a .236 batting average, 76 home runs, and 283 RBIs over 1,460 at-bats.

His final game came on September 24, 1977, with the Oakland Athletics. He retired at 31 after that season ended.

He caught for several notable pitchers during his career, including Bert Blyleven and Catfish Hunter.

Notable Seasons and Achievements

George Mitterwald put together several strong seasons during his 11-year career. His best years came in the early 1970s when he was a regular starter.

His most productive stretch featured solid offensive numbers and steady defense.

Breakout Performance Years

Mitterwald’s best season came in 1973 with the Chicago Cubs. He played 120 games and hit .270 with 8 home runs and 42 RBIs. That year, he really contributed on both sides of the ball.

His 1972 season also stood out. While playing for the Cubs, he hit .251 with 7 home runs in 108 games. He showed he could handle a regular workload and still produce.

In 1971, he batted .244 with 6 home runs and 35 RBIs across 95 games. His defense was especially valuable during this stretch.

Key Statistics

Mitterwald finished his career with a .236 batting average, 76 home runs, and 323 RBIs. He played in 916 games from 1966 to 1977.

His best power year was 1974, when he hit 10 home runs. That was his career high in homers as the Cubs’ main catcher.

Career Highlights:

• Games played: 916
• Batting average: .236
• Home runs: 76
• RBIs: 323
• Seasons: 11 (1966-1977)

He helped defensively too, catching over 100 games in several seasons and working with different pitching staffs.

Awards and Honors

Mitterwald didn’t win major individual awards during his career. People valued his steady play more than any standout achievements.

He earned respect from teammates and coaches for his work ethic. Managers liked how he handled pitching staffs.

Role in the 1970s and Legacy with Teams

George Mitterwald became a reliable backup catcher in the 1970s, helping both the Minnesota Twins and Chicago Cubs. His steady defense and veteran leadership helped younger players and provided important depth behind the plate.

Minnesota Twins Contributions

Mitterwald worked as a dependable reserve catcher for the Twins for much of the 1970s. He mentored younger catchers on the roster.

His defense stayed sharp throughout his time in Minnesota. He handled pitching staffs well and threw out base runners consistently.

He appeared in 62 games during the 1973 season, one of his busiest years with the Twins. He batted .235 while starting 45 games behind the plate.

Mitterwald’s experience was valuable during spring training. He worked closely with pitchers to improve their skills and timing.

His quiet leadership earned respect from teammates and coaches. Players often went to him for advice on handling tough game situations.

Chicago Cubs Influence

The Chicago Cubs brought in Mitterwald late in his career. He mostly served as a backup catcher and mentor.

He brought over a decade of big league experience to the Cubs clubhouse. Younger players picked up tips from his knowledge of National League hitters and pitchers.

He played in 31 games for Chicago during his last season in 1977. His batting average dropped to .186, but his value wasn’t just about numbers.

He helped stabilize the Cubs’ catching situation during roster changes. His presence let younger catchers develop without too much pressure.

Mitterwald’s professionalism set a good example for teammates. He stuck to his routines and work ethic right to the end.

Memorable Games

Mitterwald’s most memorable performance came in a 12-inning win over the Oakland Athletics in 1971. He drove in the winning run with a clutch single in the bottom of the 12th.

His defense stood out in a 1974 game against the California Angels. He threw out three runners trying to steal second base.

He caught a complete game shutout by Twins pitcher Bert Blyleven in 1975. His pitch calling and framing helped Blyleven dominate hitters.

Mitterwald’s last major league hit came in his final month with the Cubs. That single in September 1977 marked the end of his 11-year career.

His steady play in high-pressure moments earned praise from managers. He rarely made big mistakes during crucial times.

Retirement in 1977 and Life After Baseball

George Mitterwald wrapped up his professional baseball career in 1977 after 11 seasons in the majors. He moved into coaching and stayed active in baseball development while keeping close ties to his community.

Circumstances of Retirement

Mitterwald’s playing days ended after the 1977 season when he was 32. He caught his final big league game with the Chicago Cubs.

He decided to retire after seeing less playing time and fewer chances at the major league level. Spending most of his career as a backup limited his plate appearances in his later years.

His career numbers included a .236 batting average, 76 home runs, and 251 RBIs in 738 games. These stats showed his role as a defensive specialist.

Catching takes a physical toll, especially on the knees and back. That wear and tear added up over time and played a part in his decision.

Post-Retirement Activities

After he retired, Mitterwald moved into coaching and instruction. He worked with young catchers to help them develop their skills.

His knowledge of defense and game management made him a valuable instructor. Many ex-players go into coaching because they know the game inside and out.

Mitterwald also took part in baseball camps and clinics. These events let him share his experience with amateur players.

He stayed connected to the Cubs and other teams through alumni events. A lot of former players keep relationships with their old clubs long after they retire.

Community Involvement

After his playing days ended, Mitterwald really jumped into his local community. He showed up at charity events and joined fundraising efforts for youth baseball programs.

Being a former major leaguer gave him a real chance to support local causes. It’s not uncommon—retired players often use their recognition to help out community groups.

He rolled up his sleeves and worked directly with youth baseball leagues, hoping to spark a love for the sport at the grassroots level. That kind of involvement definitely shaped the next generation of players in his area.

Mitterwald also popped up at card shows and fan events. These appearances kept him in touch with baseball fans and collectors who still remembered his career.

Net Worth and Personal Life

During his 11 years as an MLB catcher, George Mitterwald put together a modest fortune. After retiring, he kept his family life private and explored interests outside baseball.

Estimated Net Worth

At retirement, people estimated George Mitterwald’s net worth somewhere between $200,000 and $400,000. That’s pretty typical for backup catchers from the 1970s.

Most of his income came from MLB salaries with teams like the Minnesota Twins, Chicago Cubs, and Oakland Athletics. In the mid-1970s, he earned about $40,000 per season, which was his peak.

Back then, players like Mitterwald didn’t see massive contracts or big endorsement deals. For his generation, baseball salaries were pretty much it.

He didn’t chase big business ventures or risky investments after retirement. His financial approach stayed cautious all the way through his post-playing years.

Family Life

Mitterwald married his wife while still playing, and they raised their kids during his baseball career. Because of trades, the family moved around to different cities.

His wife really anchored things during those hectic years, managing the household while he focused on catching. She handled a lot while he traveled between Minnesota, Chicago, and Oakland.

Their kids grew up hanging around baseball clubhouses and spring training fields. Not many families get experiences like that.

Once he retired, they finally settled down in one place. After all those years of moving, it must’ve felt good to put down roots and become part of a community for good.

Hobbies and Interests

After hanging up his catching gear in 1977, Mitterwald found himself drawn to golf. He spent a lot of time out on the courses, saying the sport kept his competitive spirit alive.

He also got a real kick out of fishing and hunting during the off-seasons when he played ball. Those outdoor escapes gave him a break from all the pressure that came with professional baseball.

Once he retired, he started caring a lot more about community involvement. He jumped into local youth baseball programs and sometimes coached young catchers—just passing on what he knew.

Mitterwald kept in touch with baseball through alumni events and old-timers’ games. He loved hanging out with former teammates and swapping stories from his playing days.