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

George Stone pitched his final major league game in 1975, wrapping up a nine-year run that took him from Louisiana’s cotton fields to the bright lights at New York’s Shea Stadium.

Born in Ruston, Louisiana in 1946, Stone was a left-handed pitcher who built a solid career from 1967 to 1975 with the Atlanta Braves and New York Mets.

Most folks remember Stone for his stellar 1973 season with the New York Mets, when he put up a 12-3 record and a 2.80 ERA. He led the National League in winning percentage and played a big part in getting the Mets to the World Series.

Stone’s sharp control and sneaky fastball made him a valuable arm in an era when pitchers were expected to go deep into games.

Let’s take a look at Stone’s journey, from his days as a two-sport athlete at Louisiana Tech University, through some early bumps in Atlanta, and then his best years with the Mets before he retired in 1975.

His story really shows what a determined athlete can do when he squeezes every drop out of his talent.

Early Life and Amateur Career

George Heard Stone was born July 9, 1946, in Ruston, Louisiana, and grew up in a farming family with deep roots in the area.

He shined in basketball and baseball at Ruston High School, earning a reputation as a standout athlete in both sports.

Stone headed to Louisiana Tech University on a basketball scholarship, but he kept dominating on the baseball field too.

Family Background and Upbringing

George Heard Stone Jr. was the son of George Heard Stone Sr. and Ethel (Martin) Stone. The family’s ties to northern Louisiana ran deep, going back to his great-grandfather who settled in Union Parish after the Civil War.

The Stones farmed Louisiana land through the 1930s. George’s dad, born in 1917 in Farmerville, served as a U.S. Army corporal in World War II.

After the war, George Sr. married Ethel Martin. They started their family and first moved to the small village of Doyline, about 20 miles east of Shreveport.

That’s where George Jr. began his schooling.

Later, the family moved back to Ruston. That move ended up being a big deal for George’s athletic career and future chances.

High School Achievements

At Ruston High School, George Stone made his name as an outstanding two-sport athlete.

The school usually turned out football stars, but Stone found his groove on the basketball court and baseball diamond.

In 1963, Stone picked up the school’s Outstanding Player award after leading the Ruston Bearcats baseball team. He hit an eye-popping .444 and tied the season record for pitching wins.

He didn’t just shine in high school. Stone led his American Legion team to the state finals in both 1963 and 1964, showing he could handle pressure.

His talents weren’t just limited to baseball; he excelled in basketball too. That versatility helped him land a college scholarship and got pro scouts interested.

Louisiana Tech College Years

Stone’s basketball skills earned him a scholarship to Louisiana Tech University in Ruston.

He played for coach Scotty Robertson, who had played minor league baseball himself.

As a sophomore starter in 1966, Stone averaged 14 points per game alongside future Hall of Famer Leon Barmore.

Even with basketball success, Stone couldn’t let go of baseball.

He became a two-time All-Gulf States Conference selection in baseball. He tossed a no-hitter in 1966 and finished college with a 1.49 ERA.

That ERA was second-best in Louisiana Tech history, just behind George Woodson’s 1.39.

Atlanta Braves scout Mel Didier noticed Stone’s achievements. Didier had already signed Stone’s third cousin, Cecil Upshaw.

Stone’s college performance led to him becoming the first Louisiana Tech player ever drafted by Major League Baseball when the Braves picked him in the fifth round of the 1966 draft.

Path to the Major Leagues

George Stone’s path to pro baseball started at Louisiana Tech, where he stood out in both basketball and baseball. Braves scouts soon took notice.

He made the jump from college to the big leagues in just over a year, moving quickly through the minors and debuting in MLB in 1967.

MLB Draft and Signing with Atlanta Braves

The Atlanta Braves picked George Stone in the fifth round of the 1966 amateur draft, making him Louisiana Tech’s first MLB draftee.

Braves scout Mel Didier, who had signed Stone’s cousin Cecil Upshaw two years earlier, pushed the team to draft Stone.

At Louisiana Tech, Stone had a 1.49 ERA and threw a no-hitter in 1966. Only George Woodson’s 1.39 ERA beat his mark in school history.

College Highlights:

• Two-time All-Gulf States Conference pick
• Basketball scholarship under coach Scotty Robertson
• Averaged 14 points per game as a sophomore in 1966

Didier saw Stone’s potential as a two-sport athlete and convinced the Braves to take a chance on the lefty from Ruston.

Minor League Development

Stone kicked off his pro career with the Class-A Kinston Eagles in North Carolina. He was the youngest guy on the team.

He posted an 8-2 record with a 2.25 ERA in 80 innings over 11 starts.

His performance helped Kinston finish first in the Carolina League. Stone was among league leaders in WHIP, strikeouts per nine innings, and home run rate.

1966 Minor League Stats:

• Record: 8-2
• ERA: 2.25
• Innings: 80
• Starts: 11

Stone’s 1967 spring training turned heads in Braves management. When Tony Cloninger got hurt early in the season, the Braves called up the 20-year-old lefty.

He bounced between Richmond (AAA) and Austin (AA) that year. At Austin, Stone showed off his control and stamina, leading the team with three shutouts and seven complete games in just 14 starts.

MLB Debut with Atlanta Braves in 1967

Stone made his major league debut on September 15, 1967, at Atlanta Stadium facing the Chicago Cubs.

He came in during the eighth inning of a 4-1 game and got a fly out from Hall of Famer Billy Williams, but then gave up a triple and two singles before getting pulled.

Not the ideal debut, honestly.

Debut Game:

• Date: September 15, 1967
• Opponent: Chicago Cubs
• Result: Struggled in relief

Two weeks later, Stone started against the St. Louis Cardinals and Bob Gibson. He went seven innings, gave up one run and five hits, then got lifted for a pinch-hitter.

He didn’t get the decision, and the Braves lost 3-1 in extras. Still, that outing showed he had something to build on.

Atlanta Braves Career (1967–1972)

George Stone spent six years with the Atlanta Braves, growing from a September call-up into a dependable starter.

He played a key role in the team’s 1969 division title and playoff run, notching a career-high 13 wins that year.

Transition from Bullpen to Starting Rotation

Stone debuted on September 15, 1967, against the Cubs, coming in as a reliever and struggling after retiring Billy Williams.

In 1968, manager Lum Harris moved him into the starting rotation on August 7. Stone responded with a complete game, 10-2 win over the Cubs, helping his own cause with two hits, three RBIs, and a run.

Stone won four of his last five decisions in 1968. He finished the year with a 7-4 record and 2.76 ERA in 75 innings over 10 starts.

His strong finish convinced the Braves to protect him from the 1968 expansion draft. Manager Harris admitted they almost took a risk with Stone, but realized expansion teams would have snatched him up.

Performance Highlights and Key Seasons

Stone’s best work came in 1969, helping the Braves win the National League West. He started the year in the bullpen and quickly notched three wins, then moved to the rotation in late April.

That season, Stone flirted with a no-hitter against Pittsburgh on June 14, losing it in the seventh after an error. On July 3, he struck out 10 Giants in a 5-4 win—a career high.

1969 Stats:

• 13 wins, 13 losses
• 165⅓ innings
• 102 strikeouts
• 2.77 ERA through July 7

Stone’s delivery fooled hitters. Cardinals VP Stan Musial once said Stone “doesn’t seem to be throwing hard at all” but still baffled St. Louis batters.

The 1970 season was a mixed bag. Stone threw his first shutout in Houston and won six of his first seven, but faded in the second half, ending up 11-11 with a 3.86 ERA in 207⅓ innings.

Role in the 1969 Playoffs

Stone played a part in the Braves’ 1969 division win, their first since moving to Atlanta. His 13 victories were key in clinching the National League West.

In the 1969 NLCS, Stone pitched in Game Three of the Mets’ sweep. He came in during the fifth and gave up a run-scoring single right away.

In the sixth, he allowed a leadoff double and got replaced by his cousin, Cecil Upshaw. That brief outing ended his postseason run with Atlanta.

The playoffs didn’t go the Braves’ way, but Stone’s regular season contributions were crucial. He became a rotation mainstay heading into the next decade.

Trade to New York Mets and Immediate Impact

Everything changed for George Stone in the winter of 1972, when the New York Mets traded for him in a four-player deal with the Braves.

Stone went from a struggling pitcher to a big contributor for the Mets’ 1973 National League championship team almost overnight.

Acquisition by Mets and Blockbuster Trade

In November 1972, the New York Mets swung a big trade with Atlanta, picking up Felix Millan and George Stone for Gary Gentry and Danny Frisella.

The Mets needed a steady second baseman and more pitching depth.

The 1972 season had been rough for New York. They’d brought in names like Jim Fregosi and Rusty Staub, but injuries piled up and second baseman Ken Boswell hit just .211.

Millan, a former All-Star, was coming off his worst year but still seemed like an upgrade. Stone looked like a throw-in, since he’d been on the fringes in Atlanta.

The Braves were willing to part with two players they didn’t see as vital for two young pitchers with upside.

A lot of people wondered if the trade made sense for the Mets. Gentry was just 26 and had shown real promise, and Frisella was a steady reliever behind Tug McGraw.

Integration into Mets Rotation

Stone quickly found his place in the Mets’ pitching rotation during spring training in 1973. The change of scenery and a shot at a regular spot seemed to do wonders for him.

At 6’3″ and 205 pounds, Stone brought the physical presence needed for a starting pitcher. He threw and batted left-handed, which gave the Mets’ staff some extra flexibility.

The coaching staff got hands-on with Stone, working to fine-tune his mechanics. He’d struggled with Atlanta and looked like just another guy on the roster, but the Mets saw something in his lefty delivery.

Stone joined the Mets just as the team geared up for what they hoped would be a bounce-back season. Reliable starting pitching was a must to support their experienced veterans.

Early 1973 Season Performance

Stone surprised everyone with how well he pitched in the early months of the 1973 season. He quickly became one of the Mets’ most reliable starters and a key contributor in the rotation.

His strong outings gave manager Yogi Berra options and helped keep the pitching staff steady through the long season.

Stone showed real improvement from his Atlanta days. He had better command and looked a lot more confident on the mound. Those early wins helped set the tone for what turned into a surprising pennant chase.

He fit right into the Mets’ clubhouse, working well with the veterans. Stone embraced his role as a key starter on a team dreaming big.

Stellar 1973 Mets Season

George Stone’s 1973 season with the Mets stands out as the highlight of his career. He went 12-3 with a 2.80 ERA, leading the National League in winning percentage.

Stone’s postseason contributions were huge, including a strong start in the NLCS against the Reds and important relief work in the World Series.

Regular Season Surge and Stats

Stone kicked off the 1973 season in the bullpen, then moved into the starting rotation in early June. After losing his first two starts, he found his groove and barely looked back.

From mid-June to the end of the regular season, Stone went 11-1. He closed the season with eight straight wins from August through September.

Key 1973 Statistics:

• Record: 12-3 (.800 winning percentage)
• ERA: 2.80
• Strikeouts: 77
• Walks: 31
• Innings Pitched: 148
• Games: 27 (20 starts)

Stone’s September was especially clutch for the Mets’ pennant run. The team finished 20-8 that month, and Stone went a perfect 4-0 in five starts.

One of his most memorable moments came on May 24th in a marathon 19-inning win at Dodger Stadium. Stone threw six shutout innings and ended up with the win after the Mets scored four runs in the 19th.

1973 NLCS Against the Cincinnati Reds

Stone started Game 4 of the 1973 NLCS against the Cincinnati Reds at Shea Stadium. He delivered one of his best postseason outings.

For six innings, Stone shut down the Reds. He allowed just two hits while striking out three and walking two.

The game stayed scoreless until the seventh, when Tony Perez hit a solo homer. That was the only run Stone gave up in his 6⅔ innings.

The Mets’ offense couldn’t get much going against Fred Norman and Don Gullet. The game went 12 innings, with Pete Rose homering off Harry Parker to give Cincinnati a 2-1 win.

Stone kept the Mets in it against a tough lineup. His ability to handle the Big Red Machine showed why he’d been so valuable during the regular season.

Contribution in the 1973 World Series

In the 1973 World Series against Oakland, Stone made two big relief appearances. His top moment came in Game 2 in Oakland.

Stone came in during the 12th inning, taking over from Tug McGraw. He faced a mess—runners on first and third with no outs.

He gave up an RBI single to Jesus Alou but then got Ray Fosse to ground out. After walking Mike Andrews, Stone got Vic Davalillo to pop out to Felix Millan at second.

He finished the inning by getting Bert Campaneris to ground out to Bud Harrelson. The Mets tied the Series at a game apiece as they headed back to New York.

Fans and players questioned why Stone didn’t start Game 6. He’d been on a roll in the second half, but manager Yogi Berra went with Tom Seaver on short rest.

Stone later said, “I thought I had a chance to start, and I was disappointed that I didn’t. I was a control-type pitcher, the kind of pitcher that gave Oakland trouble.”

Cleon Jones, one of his teammates, backed him up: “We talked to Yogi about it, and a bunch of us wanted him to start Stone. He was our best pitcher in September.”

Later Mets Career and 1975 Season

After his breakout 1973, Stone couldn’t keep up that level with the Mets. Injuries started to pile up, and his performance dropped off in 1974 and 1975 before he got traded to the Texas Rangers.

Performance Decline and Injuries

Stone’s career took a nosedive after 1973. In 1974, he went just 2-7 in 15 games, pitching 77 innings.

He landed on the disabled list on August 9th with a strained shoulder tendon, ending his season two months early.

Shoulder issues started to become a recurring problem for Stone. The Mets grew more and more concerned about his ability to stay healthy.

His ERA also took a hit. Stone couldn’t match the 2.80 mark from his pennant-winning year.

Final Year and Season Summary

The 1975 season brought a little hope, but also more disappointment. In June, Stone returned to the rotation with a solid 7-2 win over the Padres.

Still, he couldn’t find consistency. He finished the year with a 3-3 record and a high 5.05 ERA.

In August, another injury—a pulled back muscle—put him back on the disabled list. He just couldn’t stay on the field.

Stone pitched only three relief games in September. His role with the Mets had shrunk from key starter to afterthought.

Trade to Texas Rangers and Decision to Retire

On February 26, 1976, the Mets traded Stone to the Texas Rangers for Bill Hands. That move ended his time in New York.

Stone wrapped up his Mets career with a 17-13 record and a 3.86 ERA. Not bad, but a far cry from his 1973 peak.

He chose not to report to the Rangers and decided to retire from baseball. Recurring injuries, including a torn rotator cuff, probably factored into that choice.

Bill Hands, the guy the Mets got in the trade, also retired instead of joining New York. So, in the end, the trade didn’t do much for either team.

Career Statistics and Legacy

George Stone finished his nine-year MLB run with a 60-57 record and a 3.89 ERA over 1,020.2 innings. He struck out 590 batters and built a solid reputation with both the Braves and Mets.

Win-Loss Record and ERA

Stone finished with 60 wins and 57 losses, giving him a .513 winning percentage in the majors. His 3.89 ERA shows he was pretty steady across his career with Atlanta and New York.

His best year, hands down, was 1973 with the Mets. Stone went 12-3 with a 2.80 ERA, leading the league in winning percentage and helping push the Mets to the World Series.

Back in Atlanta, he had a 13-10 record and a 3.65 ERA during the Braves’ 1969 division-winning season. He even pitched in the 1969 NLCS against the Mets.

Stone struggled in his final two years. In 1974 and 1975, he went 5-10 with a 5.04 ERA, and a rotator cuff injury pretty much ended his career.

Notable Strikeouts and Innings Pitched

Stone racked up 590 strikeouts in his MLB career, pitching 1,020.2 innings over 209 games. That kind of workload shows he could handle both starting and relieving.

He started out as a reliever, then moved into the starting rotation with Atlanta in August 1968, going 7-3 as a rookie starter.

His innings total shows how versatile he was. Stone pitched in several playoff series, including the 1973 World Series, where he picked up a save in Game 2 against Oakland.

Stone’s strikeout numbers held up well for his time. He stayed consistent until injuries, especially the rotator cuff, caught up with him at the end.

Legacy with Atlanta Braves and New York Mets

Stone played for two teams during his MLB career. He spent six seasons with the Atlanta Braves (1967-1972) and three seasons with the New York Mets (1973-1975).

The Mets made one of their best moves when they traded for Stone and Félix Millán on November 1, 1972, sending Gary Gentry and Danny Frisella to Atlanta in return. That trade really boosted the Mets’ pitching staff and helped them capture the 1973 National League East championship.

Stone’s 1973 season stands out as his most memorable. He won his last eight decisions while the Mets clawed their way back from 12.5 games behind to win the division.

He also pitched well in the playoffs, starting Game 4 of the National League Championship Series and holding his own.

After the 1975 season, the Mets traded Stone to the Texas Rangers for Bill Hands. Both players ended up retiring instead of continuing their careers, which brought Stone’s time in professional baseball to a close.