Willie Mays

About

Willie Mays, born on May 6, 1931, in Westfield, Alabama, is widely regarded as one of the greatest all-around baseball players in history. He began his career in the Negro Leagues with the Birmingham Black Barons before joining the New York Giants in 1951. Mays excelled in hitting, fielding, and baserunning, earning numerous accolades, including the National League Rookie of the Year award in 1951. Mays's achievements include two MVP awards, 12 Gold Glove Awards, and 24 All-Star appearances. He led the Giants to a World Series victory in 1954 with his iconic defensive play known as "The Catch." Mays played for the Giants until 1972 and finished his career with the New York Mets in 1973. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1979 and received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2015. Mays passed away on June 18, 2024, leaving behind a legacy as one of baseball's most beloved players.