When “The Say Hey Kid” Willie Mays passed away at 93, the world could only remember and celebrate his achievements as a baseball legend. Willie is known as one of the greatest baseball players ever. Mays left a huge mark on Major League Baseball in a career that lasted two decades.
Mays’ Early Life
Willie Howard Mays Jr. was born on the 6th of May, 1931, in Alabama, United States. Willie was raised by his father, Cat Mays, who was a talented baseball player. Cat introduced baseball to Willie at a very young age, and he went on to show incredible talent, playing in the Negro Leagues.
Negro Leagues Beginnings
Willie began his professional career in 1948, playing for “Chattanooga Choo-Choos,” a team in the Negro Minor League. He then joined the “Birmingham Black Barons” of the Negro American League. Willie’s excellent fielding and base running gave him recognition in the league, and he was nicknamed “The Buck.”
Joining the Major League Baseball
In 1951, Willie Mays signed with the “New York Giants” of the Major League Baseball (MLB). His first MLB game was against the “Philadelphia Phillies” at Shibe Park. He later won the “National League Rookie of the Year” award with a .274 average, 68 RBIs, and 20 homes in 121 games. He was later nicknamed “The Say Hey Kid” as he wasn’t the best at remembering people’s names.
“The Catch” (1954 World Series)
Mays made “The Catch” during the 1954 World Series, an iconic moment in baseball history. It was a spectacular over-the-shoulder grab that cemented his defensive prowess. That incredible play had the crowd going wild, and it helped the Giants beat Cleveland and later win the World Series.
The “Five-Tool Player”
Willie Mays was popularly known as a five-tool player. He excelled in hitting for power, hitting for average, baserunning, throwing, and fielding. May almost swings with more power and bat speed than most baseball players. His versatility on the pitch made him one of the most complete baseball players ever.
660 Home Runs Achievement
In a career that spanned two decades, Mays hit 660 home runs to the amusement of coaches and fans of the game. This magnificent home run fit placed Willie Mays among baseball’s top home run hitters. Mays’ power at the plate was legendary, and he eventually won two NL Most Valuable Player awards.
Gold Glove Excellence
Willie Mays’s incredible fielding skills won him 12 Gold Glove awards between 1957 and 1968. His tendency to track down fly balls and throw runners out was unmatched during his era. This achievement made him one of the most decorated right-field and center-field players in the history of the game.
Influence on African-American Players
If there’s one thing Willie Mays was respected for during his days, it’s his influence on African-American baseball players. Mays broke barriers for African-American athletes in baseball by inspiring generations of black players. He was one of the first Black superstars in the MLB, paving the way for future talent.
Longevity and Consistency as a Baseball Player
Willie Mays had an excellent 23-season career as a Major League Baseball player. Willie played for the New York Giants, then the New York Mets of the National League. Mays played baseball until he was 42 years old. His ability to perform at a high level for over two decades set him apart from other players.
The Giants’ Move to San Francisco
In 1958, Willie moved with the Giants from New York to San Francisco, where he became a fan favorite. Mays’s presence in the game helped establish baseball on the West Coast. During his time with San Francisco, Willie Mays won another MVP award in 1965 to cement his legacy as an exceptional player.
Mays Return to the Mets
After years of success, Mays ended his career with a return to New York after an early-season move to the New York Mets in 1972. He finished his illustrious career on the East Coast, where it all started. It was a good end to an amazing career that lasted over two decades, and he would become a game legend.
24 All-Star Appearances
Between 1954 and 1973, Willie Mays was selected to 24 All-Star games, tying for the second most appearances in baseball history. When Mays retired, he held the NL record for career runs scored (2,062). His consistent excellence in the game made him a perennial fan and player favorite.
Hall of Fame Induction
In 1979, Mays was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility, a testament to his impact on the game and his lasting legacy. Nothing would come between him and this achievement, considering he gained 94.7% of the first ballot votes. That’s to show he was the absolute best of his time.
Life After Baseball
After retiring, Willie Mays remained active in baseball, serving as an ambassador for the sport. His charitable work and influence continue to inspire athletes and fans nationwide. Also, Willie Mays authored a book titled “My Life In and Out of Baseball”. It’s a must-read for every baseball enthusiast.
Willie Mays’ Legacy
Willie Mays passed away on the 18th of June, 2024, but his legacy as one of baseball’s greatest players lives on. From his iconic plays to his trailblazing role in breaking racial barriers, Mays’ contributions to the game will never be forgotten. He’ll forever be remembered as a true legend of the baseball game.
The Incredible Journey Of Willie Mays