Leroy Bobby Stanton was an American professional baseball player who spent parts of nine seasons in Major League Baseball. Primarily an outfielder, Stanton reached the major leagues in 1970 and remained an active big‑league player through the 1978 season. He is remembered for his steady role on several teams during the 1970s and for continuing his career overseas after his MLB tenure.
Career
Stanton's major league career included time with the New York Mets, the California Angels, and the Seattle Mariners. He played in the majors over parts of nine seasons from 1970 to 1978, and was on the roster of the Mariners during the club's early years as an expansion team. After his MLB career he played one season in Japan, signing with the Hanshin Tigers for the 1979 campaign.
Early life and background
Stanton was born on April 10, 1946, in Latta, South Carolina. Like many professional ballplayers of his era, he spent time in the minor leagues developing his game before becoming a regular major‑league contributor. His path reflects the common mid‑20th century progression from American minor leagues to the majors and, later, to opportunities abroad.
Legacy and significance
While never a hall‑of‑fame figure, Stanton's career illustrates the journeyman professional ballplayer: capable of contributing at the highest level, adaptable to different clubs and markets, and willing to extend his playing days by joining an international league. Fans of the teams he played for remember him as a dependable member of the outfield corps during a transitional period for several franchises.
Personal life and death
Leroy Stanton died on March 13, 2019, in a car crash near Florence, South Carolina. He was 72. His passing was reported by major sports outlets and prompted remembrances from former teammates and the communities where he played.
Notable facts
- Played nine MLB seasons spanning 1970–1978.
- Was part of the generation of players who moved between American and Japanese professional baseball.
- Born in Latta, South Carolina, and returned to the region late in life.