Baseball Legend Willie Mays, the 'Say Hey Kid,' Has Died at 93

By Brooks L | 06/19/2024

Baseball lost a legend in the great Willie Mays Jr., affectionately nicknamed the 'Say Hey Kid,' yesterday at the age of 93. Mays was an MLB centerfielder who played 23 seasons. He's regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, ranking second only to the "Great Bambino" Babe Ruth according to many lists such as ESPN and The Sporting News.

Mays played in the National Leagues from 1951 to 1973 for the New York & San Francisco Giants as well as the New York Mets. Remarkably, he was a 24-time All-Star, which ties him for the second most in MLB history.

Mays was born in a small town in Westfield, Alabama on May 6, 1931. He began his professional baseball career with the Birmingham Black Barons in 1948 and played with them until he graduated high school in 1950, upon which he was signed by the Giants. He was Rookie of the Year in 1951, amassing 20 home runs which helped the Giants win their first Pennant in 14 years.

Mays would go on to win the NL MVP in 1954 and 1965. His over-the-shoulder basket catch is regarded as one of the greatest catches of all time. It took place in the 1954 World Series.

Simply iconic

Willie Mays made The Catch OTD in 1954. #Postseason pic.twitter.com/MUTfw7qkyr

— MLB Vault (@MLBVault) September 29, 2020

Mays would lead the Giants to another World Series appearance in 1962, ultimately losing to the New York Yankees. He was acquired by the New York Mets in 1972 following a midseason trade. He would go on to hang up his cleats as a player following the Mets' 1973 World Series appearance.

Mays was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1979.

Tributes have been pouring in from MLB teams across the league.

Rest in Peace to quite possibly the greatest baseball player to ever step on the baseball diamond.

Willie Mays' impact on baseball and sports, in general, will be remembered for generations. His incredible skills on the field and his charismatic personality off it made him a beloved figure to many. As fans, players, and teams continue to honor his legacy, Mays' spirit will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of baseball enthusiasts.