The baseball community is in mourning following the passing of Hall of Famer Willie Mays, who died at the age of 93.
The San Francisco Giants confirmed his death on social media on Tuesday.
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Willie Mays died surrounded by his family
“It is with great sadness that we announce that San Francisco Giants Legend and Hall of Famer Willie Mays passed away peacefully this afternoon at the age of 93,” the team announced.
Mays, a legendary figure synonymous with the Giants and Major League Baseball, died of heart failure, as reported by the San Francisco Chronicle.
His son, Michael Mays, expressed his gratitude for the support his father received over the years, saying, “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.”
Known affectionately as “The Say Hey Kid,” Mays dazzled fans with his exceptional skills and infectious enthusiasm.
He was a true five-tool player, excelling in hitting, power hitting, fielding, throwing, and base running.
In his 23 major league seasons, primarily with the New York Giants and the San Francisco Giants, Mays hit 660 career home runs, finishing second only to Babe Ruth at the time.
He led the National League in home runs and steals four times and in slugging five times.
Mays maintained a batting average above .300 in ten seasons, ending his career with an impressive .302 average.
Willie Mays known for iconic catch in 1954
Mays’ prowess was not limited to his offensive capabilities.
As a center fielder, he won 12 Gold Gloves, showcasing his defensive brilliance.
His remarkable catch in the 1954 World Series remains one of the most iconic moments in baseball history, leading to the World Series MVP Award being named in his honor in 2017.
The San Francisco Giants chairman Greg Johnson paid tribute to Mays, stating, “Today we have lost a true legend. In the pantheon of baseball greats, Willie Mays’ combination of tremendous talent, keen intellect, showmanship, and boundless joy set him apart.”
“A 24-time All-Star, the Say Hey Kid is the ultimate Forever Giant. He had a profound influence not only on the game of baseball, but on the fabric of America. He was an inspiration and a hero who will be forever remembered and deeply missed.”
Willie Mays’ legacy extends beyond his on-field achievements.
He broke barriers throughout his career, becoming the first African American captain in MLB history.
In recognition of his contributions, Mays was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama in 2015.
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