Willie Mays

Willie Mays is an American former professional baseball player, born on May 6, 1931, in Westfield, Alabama. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest baseball players of all time. Mays began his professional career with the Birmingham Black Barons before moving to the New York Giants in 1951, where he won multiple titles, including two National League MVP titles and the World Series.

Mays is known for his incredible speed, strength, batting ability, and versatility. He has won numerous individual awards, including twelve Gold Glove awards, and holds multiple records, such as the most putouts made by an outfielder in MLB history.

Off the field, Mays is also recognized for his philanthropy and influence, making significant charitable contributions and inspiring millions worldwide.

Birmingham Black Barons

• Youth and Early Career: Mays was born and raised in Alabama and joined the Birmingham Black Barons as a teenager. He played for the team in the Negro American League.

New York/San Francisco Giants (first stint)

• Early Success: Mays signed with the New York Giants in 1951. He developed into one of the world's best players, winning two National League MVP titles, a World Series, and his first of twelve Gold Glove awards.

New York Mets

• Later Career: In 1972, Mays was traded to the New York Mets. Despite his declining abilities due to age, he continued to be a valuable player and mentor for the team. He retired in 1973.

USA National Team

• Mays did not play for a national team as the structure of baseball differs from that of football. However, he represented the United States in the Major Leagues and is regarded as one of the best players in the history of the sport.

• Position: Primarily a center fielder.
• Skills: Known for his incredible speed, strength, and batting prowess. Mays is celebrated for his versatility, powerful throws, and fielding ability.

• Family: Mays was married twice and has one adopted son.
• Philanthropy: Mays has been involved in various charitable activities and has donated significant sums to children's hospitals, education and community development.

• Willie Mays is celebrated not only for his extraordinary talent and numerous records but also for his work ethic, determination, and longevity in professional baseball. His impact on the sport and his status as an icon extend beyond the pitch, inspiring millions of fans around the world.

Most putouts by an outfielder in MLB history:

• Over 7,000 putouts

Most double plays by an outfielder in a season:

• 10 double plays in 1955

Most Extra-Inning Home Runs in a Career:

• 22 extra-inning home runs

Most 3-Home-Run games:

• Six 3-home-run games

Books

• Hirsch, J. (2010) Willie Mays: The Life, The Legend. New York: Scribner.
• Mays, W., & Sahadi, L. (1988) Say Hey: The Autobiography of Willie Mays. New York: Simon and Schuster.

Websites

• Baseball Hall of Fame: Information about Willie Mays’s career and achievements. Available at: https://www.baseballhall.org
• MLB: Details about Mays’s career at the Major League Baseball. Available at: https://www.mlb.com

Articles

• ESPN: Willie Mays: Career in numbers. Available at: https://www.espn.com/mlb/player/stats/_/id/17440/willie-mays
• The Guardian: Willie Mays’s career highlights and records. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2021/may/06/willie-mays-90th-birthday-giants-mlb