Legendary outfielder Willie Mays, known as the “Say Hey Kid,” has passed away at the age of 93. Mays, who is widely regarded as the greatest center fielder in baseball history, died peacefully in the Bay Area surrounded by loved ones.

Throughout his illustrious career, which spanned over two decades, Mays made an indelible mark on the sport. He was a 24-time All-Star, won two National League MVP awards, and had 12 Gold Gloves.

Mays ranks sixth all time in home runs (660), seventh in runs scored (2,068), 10th in RBIs (1,909), and 12th in hits (3,293).Mays’ defensive prowess was epitomized by his famous “The Catch” in Game 1 of the 1954 World Series, where he made a basket catch while on the run and fired the ball into the infield to prevent both runners from scoring. This play is still remembered as one of the most iconic moments in baseball history.

Mays was born on May 6, 1931, and began his professional career at age 17 with the Birmingham Black Barons in the Negro Leagues. He was drafted by the New York Giants in 1950 and went on to play for the team until 1973, helping them win the World Series in 1954. Mays was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1979 and received the Medal of Freedom from President Barack Obama in 2015.

The San Francisco Giants, where Mays spent most of his career, have announced that they will play a game in his honor on Thursday at Rickwood Field in Birmingham, Alabama. The game is part of a celebration of Mays and the Negro Leagues, and it will also serve as a national remembrance of an American who will forever remain one of the most impactful individuals in baseball history.

Mays’ legacy continues to inspire and influence the game, with many players and fans alike paying tribute to his incredible achievements and enduring spirit.

 

 

Source: ESPN