Willie Mays, the electrifying “Say Hey Kid” combining talent, dynamism and exuberance, died Tuesday at the age of 93.
On Tuesday evening, Mays’ family and the San Francisco Giants announced that he “passed away peacefully” in the afternoon, surrounded by his loved ones.
24-time All-Star, 12-time Gold Glover, 2-time MVP, World Series champion, Hall of Famer.
MLB Network mourns the passing of one of our game’s most iconic figures, Willie Mays. pic.twitter.com/gQLCnbm2lN
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) June 19, 2024
The legendary center fielder was the oldest member of the Hall of Fame.
His unique way of making catches and his fiery runs around the bases embodied the joy of playing baseball.
His over-the-shoulder catch on a long strike in the World Series in 1954 is still one of the defensive gems in baseball history.
Photo: John Lent Associated Press archives
Willie Mays in training, in New York, June 24, 1954
In 22 seasons, virtually all with the New York or San Francisco Giants, Mays hit for .302, collected 660 home runs, totaled 3,283 hits, scored more than 2,000 runs, and won 12 Gold Gloves.
He was named rookie of the year in 1951.
Mays was twice named Most Valuable Player; he has also finished in the top 10 of this poll on 10 other occasions.
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