Baseball icon Willie Mays, celebrated as one of the sport’s greatest players, has died at the age of 93. The San Francisco Giants confirmed the news in a statement, saying, “It is with great sadness that we announce that San Francisco Giants Legend and Hall of Famer Willie Mays passed away peacefully this afternoon.”
Major League Baseball (MLB) expressed its profound sorrow over the loss, calling Mays “one of the most exciting all-around players in the history of our sport.” Known as the “Say Hey Kid,” Mays was a two-time MVP and led the Giants to a World Series victory in 1954. He was revered for his all-around excellence and his memorable over-the-shoulder catch during the 1954 World Series remains a hallmark of his career.
Mays’ son, Michael, shared that his father died surrounded by family, extending heartfelt thanks to fans for their support over the years. “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.”
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred praised Mays’ unparalleled impact on the game, stating, “His incredible achievements and statistics do not begin to describe the awe that came with watching Willie Mays dominate the game in every way imaginable. We will never forget this true Giant on and off the field.”
San Francisco Mayor London Breed and California Governor Gavin Newsom also paid tribute to Mays. Mayor Breed highlighted Mays’ legendary status in San Francisco, saying, “To people that grew up in the city, some things just go without question… Willie Mays is the best there ever was.” Governor Newsom lauded Mays as “more than just a baseball icon,” acknowledging his role in breaking barriers and inspiring countless Americans.
In a historic update to his career stats, the MLB recently added 10 hits to Mays’ record from his time with the Negro League’s Birmingham Black Barons, bringing his career total to 3,293 hits. This adjustment reflects the MLB’s decision to incorporate Negro League statistics, honoring players who excelled before integration.
Born in Westfield, Alabama, Mays began his professional career while still in high school in 1948. He joined the New York Giants in 1950 and quickly made his mark, earning the Rookie of the Year award in 1951. After serving in the US Army during the Korean War, Mays returned to lead the Giants to their 1954 World Series triumph.
Mays spent the majority of his career with the Giants, both in New York and San Francisco, before finishing with the New York Mets. Over his illustrious career, he was a 24-time All-Star, won 12 Gold Gloves, and set numerous records that still stand today.
Despite retiring over 50 years ago, Mays’ legacy continues to inspire. His contributions to baseball were recognized with his induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1979 and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2015.
As the baseball world mourns the loss of a true legend, Willie Mays’ extraordinary life and career will be remembered and celebrated by generations to come.
