Baseball Legend Willie Mays Dies at 93

Willie Mays, a cornerstone of professional baseball, died on Tuesday afternoon. The San Francisco Giants, with whom Mays played most of his 20-plus year career, announced his passing with a statement from Willie's son Michael. Willie was 93-years old.

"My father passed away peacefully and among loved ones," Michael Mays said. "I want to thank you all from the bottom of my broken heart heart for the unwavering love you have shown him over the years. You have been his life's blood."

Giants Chairman Greg Johnson said in a statement, "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 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."

Barry Bonds, a fellow Giants legend who is also Mays' godson and is just five spots above him on the Major League Baseball's all-time home run list, shared a heart-felt message on social media.

"I am beyond devastated and overcome with emotion," Bonds said. "I have no words to describe what you [Willie Mays] mean to me - you helped shape wee to be who I am today. Thank you for being my Godfather and always being there. Give my dad a hug for me. Rest In Peace Willie, I love you forever."

Mays passed away just two days before the Giants were slated to play the St. Louis Cardinals at Rickwood Field in Birmingham, Alabama. The game was in honor of Mays and the Negro Leagues as a whole. The Giants confirmed Monday [June 17] that Mays would sadly be unable to attend.

Willie Mays, one of baseball's most iconic figures, was born on May 6, 1931, in Westfield, Alabama. Raised in a sports-oriented family, his father was a talented baseball player in the Negro leagues, and his mother excelled in track and field. Mays showed exceptional athletic talent from a young age, excelling in football, basketball, and baseball.

Mays' professional career began in the Negro leagues with the Birmingham Black Barons at just 16 years old. His exceptional performance soon caught the attention of Major League Baseball scouts, and in 1950, he signed with the New York Giants. He made his MLB debut in 1951, quickly establishing himself as a star with his remarkable hitting, fielding, and baserunning skills. His iconic over-the-shoulder catch in the 1954 World Series remains one of the most memorable moments in baseball history.

Over a 22-season career, Mays amassed numerous accolades, including 24 All-Star selections, 12 Gold Glove Awards, and two MVP titles. He ended his career with 660 home runs, making him one of the all-time leaders in home runs. Mays played the majority of his career with the Giants, both in New York and San Francisco, before finishing his career with the New York Mets in 1973.

Off the field, Mays faced and overcame significant racial barriers, becoming a pioneering figure in the integration of baseball. His grace, dignity, and sportsmanship made him a beloved figure across America.

After retiring, Mays continued to contribute to the sport as a mentor and ambassador for baseball. In 1979, he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility. His legacy extends beyond his impressive statistics; he is celebrated for his joyous play and his role in the broader cultural and social advancements in sports.

Willie Mays remains a symbol of excellence and a source of inspiration, not only to baseball fans but to all who admire perseverance, talent, and integrity.