American · Westfield, Alabama · Born 6 May 1931 · Died 2024-06-18American baseball center fielder widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, known for his spectacular all-around play and 'Say Hey Kid' nicknam
Willie Howard Mays Jr. was born in Westfield, Alabama in 1931. New York Giants signed him and he debuted in 1951. His career produced 660 home runs, a .302 batting average and two NL MVP awards (1954, 1965). His over-the-shoulder catch at the 1954 World Series — sprinting to deep centre at the Polo Grounds to catch Vic Wertz's 450-foot drive — is considered the greatest defensive play in baseball history and is known simply as The Catch. He was a 20-time All-Star, won 12 Gold Gloves and led the NL in stolen bases four consecutive seasons. He won the World Series in 1954. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1979. He died in June 2024 aged 93. He is the complete baseball player — hitting average, power, speed and defence all at the highest level.
The Say Hey Kid, incredible all-around play, spectacular catches
"The Catch" in the 1954 World Series — running with his back to the plate and catching over his shoulder at full sprint — is universally considered the greatest defensive play in baseball history.
Did You Know?How They Played
Five-tool player: hit for average and power, speed, fielding, arm strength
Lasting Impact
Greatest all-around player in baseball history, iconic center fielder
Career Honours
- World Series Champion 1954
- 2x NL MVP
- 12x Gold Glove
- 660 career home runs
- 2x Batting Champion
| Team | Period | Games |
|---|---|---|
| New York Giants | 1951–1957 | 1046 |
| San Francisco Giants | 1958–1972 | 2211 |
| New York Mets | 1972–1973 | 135 |
American Athletes