Baseball Legend Willie Mays Has Passed Away

“My father has passed away peacefully and among loved ones. I want to thank you all from the bottom of my broken heart for the unwavering love you have shown him over the years. You have been his life’s blood.”

Michael Mays, son of Willie

Willie Mays’ life and career spanned not only generations of fans, but also oversaw revolutions of the sport of baseball. Mays began his professional career in the Negro Leagues as a member of the Birmingham Black Barons in 1948. He joined Major League Baseball in 1951, where he won Rookie of the Year as a member of the then New York Giants. Mays would stay with the Giants for twenty one total years, making the cross-country move with them to San Francisco in 1958.

Willie Mays dominated his era. His numbers are almost unbelievable and have only become more impressive as time passes. Willie Mays hit 660 home runs and maintained a career .301 batting average. He was a 2x MVP, 24x All-Star, and 12x Gold Glove winner. He helped propel the Giants to their 1954 World Series title after slashing .345/.411/.667 during the regular season. The 1954 World Series also produced perhaps his best moment of all time. His over-the-shoulder catch deep in center field of the Polo Grounds became one of the most iconic plays in sports history. Mays was a lock for the Hall of Fame and was inducted in 1979.

Mays was beloved both on and off the field. Baseball fans cherished his unorthodox approach to batting and his endlessly friendly demeanor. He was known to make himself available to young fans of the game and set up the Say Hey Foundation after his retirement to offer opportunities for underprivileged children. He leaves behind a legacy that should not only inspire athleticism, but kindness. Our thoughts are with his friends, family, and fans.

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