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HomeNews"The Say Hey Kid" Baseball legend Willie Mays Dies at 93

“The Say Hey Kid” Baseball legend Willie Mays Dies at 93

Willie Howard Mays Jr., affectionately known as “the Say Hey Kid,” died June 18, 2024.  Mays left an indelible mark on the world of baseball. His legacy transcends statistics; it embodies passion, skill, and a love for the game.

Willie Mays was more than a ballplayer; he was a force of nature. His 660 home runs place him sixth on the all-time list, but his impact extended far beyond the numbers. As a center fielder, he redefined the position, making it the game’s most glamorous spot. Alongside Mickey Mantle and Duke Snider, he electrified New York clubs in the 1950s.

Born in Westfield, Alabama, Mays honed his talents with the Birmingham Black Barons in the Negro leagues. His athleticism and charisma caught the attention of the New York Giants, who signed him in 1950. Thus began a storied career that spanned 23 seasons.

The Five-Tool Phenomenon

Mays was more than a player; he was a phenomenon. His five-tool prowess set him apart:

  • Hitting: A .302 career batting average.
  • Power: 660 home runs.
  • Speed: 179 stolen bases during the 1950s.
  • Defense: 12 consecutive Gold Glove Awards.
  • Arm Strength: A cannon in center field. 

    Mays’ over-the-shoulder catch in Game 1 of the 1954 World Series remains etched in baseball lore. His impact extended beyond the field, inspiring generations of fans.

    A Forever Giant

    As the Giants moved from New York to San Francisco, Mays remained a constant. His return to New York with the Mets in 1972 was a fitting farewell. He retired after the 1973 World Series, leaving a legacy that transcends time.

    Hall of Fame and Beyond

    Elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1979, Mays joined the pantheon of greats. His Presidential Medal of Freedom, awarded by Barack Obama in 2015, recognized not only his athletic achievements but also his influence on American culture.

    Farewell, Say Hey Kid

    As we bid farewell to Willie Mays, we celebrate a life well-lived. His spirit lives on in every crack of the bat, every stolen base, and every dazzling catch.

    Photo Credit: Jason Doiy                                                                                            San Francisco, California, USA – May 10, 2011: A life size statue of Orlando Cepeda at the 2nd Street entrance to ATT Park, home of the 2010 World Series champions the San Francisco Giants. Located at 24 Willie Mays Plaza, built in 2000 the park is designed to seat 42,000 spectators. 

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