MLB legend Willie Mays has died at 93. The San Francisco Giants announced the iconic outfielder’s death on social media around 6 p.m. on Tuesday, June 18.
Mays is widely regarded as one of the greatest baseball players of all time. Known as a rare five-tool star, the “Say Hey Kid” excelled in contact hitting, hitting for power, speed, fielding, and arm strength. His 23-year career stats are remarkable: 660 home runs, 3,293 hits, 1,909 RBIs, a .301 batting average, and a .940 OPS. Mays was a two-time MVP, a 24-time All-Star, won 12 Gold Gloves, Rookie of the Year, and led the Giants to the 1954 World Series victory.
Mays played 21 seasons with the New York/San Francisco Giants and three seasons with the New York Mets. Before joining MLB, he played for the Birmingham Black Barons of the Negro League and served in the U.S. Army during parts of the 1952 and all of the 1953 seasons.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred issued a statement mourning Mays’ death, highlighting his impact on the game: “Willie Mays took his all-around brilliance from the Birmingham Black Barons of the Negro American League to the historic Giants franchise… Willie inspired generations of players and fans as the game grew and truly earned its place as our National Pastime.”
Manfred noted Mays’ remarkable achievements, including his military service and the iconic “The Catch” in the 1954 World Series. “We will never forget this true Giant on and off the field,” Manfred said, extending condolences to Mays’ family and fans.
Thursday’s game at Rickwood Field, originally meant to celebrate Mays and his peers, will now serve as a national remembrance of his incredible legacy.
