Sam Jones (jonessa02)
From BR Bullpen
Samuel Jones (Toothpick Sam or Sad Sam)
- Bats Right, Throws Right
- Height 6' 4", Weight 200 lb.
- Debut September 22, 1951
- Final Game October 3, 1964
- Born December 14, 1923 in Stewartsville, OH USA
- Died November 5, 1971 in Morgantown, WV USA
[edit] Biographical Information
"You've never seen a curveball until you've seen Sam Jones's curveball." - Hobie Landrith
Sad Sam Jones (sometimes called "Toothpick Sam Jones") was a strikeout artist who pitched 12 seasons in the big leagues, dominating the National League in 1959 when he led the league in both ERA and victories. He led the league four times in strikeouts per nine innings pitched.
Jones was in the Negro Leagues in the 1940's, appearing in the 1947 Series, and then was in the white minors for several years. The Cleveland Indians had an excellent staff and he couldn't break onto it. After the 1954 season the Chicago Cubs thought enough of him to trade Ralph Kiner for him.
He had his biggest years with the St. Louis Cardinals and San Francisco Giants between 1957 and 1960.
One of the most similar players, Mario Soto, is an interesting comparison.
He played in the minors as a player-coach for Columbus for several years after his major league career. Jones died of cancer at age 45.
He is not to be confused with another player of the same name, Sad Sam Jones.
[edit] Notable Achievements
- 1965 Pitcher of the Year International League Columbus Jets
- 2-time NL All-Star (1955 & 1959)
- NL ERA Leader (1959)
- NL Wins Leader (1959)
- 3-time NL Strikeouts Leader (1955, 1956 & 1958)
- NL Shutouts Leader (1959)
- 15 Wins Seasons: 2 (1959 & 1960)
- 20 Wins Seasons: 1 (1959)
- 200 Innings Pitched Seasons: 4 (1955 & 1958-1960)
- 200 Strikeouts Seasons: 2 (1958 & 1959)
