Willie Mays, Legendary MLB Giant, Dies at 93
marks a somber day in baseball history as Willie Mays, the legendary center fielder and one of the most iconic figures in Major League Baseball, passed away at the age of 93.
Known affectionately as "The Say Hey Kid," Mays' career spanned over two decades, leaving an indelible mark on the sport and earning him a revered place among the all-time greats.
Willie Howard Mays Jr. was born on May 6, 1931, in Westfield, Alabama. Growing up in a racially segregated South, Mays' early life was shaped by the supportive yet challenging environment of a company town.
Willie Mays' Major League career began in earnest when he was signed by the New York Giants in 1950.
Mays was often described as the quintessential five-tool player, excelling in hitting for average, hitting for power, base running, fielding, and throwing.
He was the first player in the National League to achieve both 300 home runs and 300 stolen bases.
His defensive skills were unparalleled, as evidenced by his 12 consecutive Gold Glove Awards from 1957 to 1968, setting a record for outfielders.
Throughout his career, Mays led the National League in home runs four times, stolen bases four times, and slugging percentage five times.
His 660 career home runs ranked third all-time upon his retirement, and he remains among the top ten in several major statistical categories, including hits, runs batted in, and total bases.