Nathaniel "Nat" Story (December 10, 1904 – August 17, 1960) was an American professional baseball player whose career spanned primarily in the Negro Leagues. A left-handed pitcher, Story was known for his durability and consistent performance across several teams from the late 1920s through the 1940s.
Early Life and Career Born in Little Rock, Arkansas, Nat Story began his professional baseball career in the Negro Leagues in the late 1920s. He quickly established himself as a reliable pitcher, often serving as a workhorse for his teams, capable of throwing complete games and appearing frequently.
Negro League Career Story's career included stints with a number of prominent Negro League teams. Some of the notable teams he played for include:
- Chicago American Giants: Story spent several seasons with the American Giants, one of the most successful franchises in Negro League history. During his time there, he contributed to their pitching staff, which often featured strong talent.
- Homestead Grays: He also played for the Homestead Grays, another dominant team, particularly in the 1930s and 1940s. While with the Grays, Story was part of a formidable roster that won multiple championships.
- Philadelphia Stars: Later in his career, he also played for the Philadelphia Stars.
Throughout his career, Story faced many of the era's greatest Black baseball players and often pitched against major league white teams in exhibition games, demonstrating the high caliber of play in the Negro Leagues. While official statistics for Negro League players are often incomplete, available records and contemporary accounts highlight his steady performance and effectiveness on the mound. He was not known for overpowering velocity but relied on control, movement, and smart pitching.
Later Life After his baseball career concluded, Nat Story lived a relatively private life. He passed away on August 17, 1960, at the age of 55. His contributions to the Negro Leagues are recognized as part of the rich history of Black baseball.
Legacy Nat Story is remembered as one of the many talented players who helped define Negro League baseball. His career highlights the challenges and successes faced by African American athletes during an era of segregation in professional sports. As efforts continue to integrate Negro League statistics into official MLB records, players like Nat Story are receiving broader recognition for their historical impact and athletic achievements.