Willie Mays, one of the greatest athletes of all-time, has passed away at the age of 93.
“My father has passed away peacefully and among loved ones,” Michael Mays said in a statement released by the San Francisco Giants. “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.”
Mays played his last baseball game in 1973, but his name has remained at the forefront of conversation when discussing the greatest players to ever wear a pair of spikes. Mays made a name for himself with the Giants — first in New York and later in San Francisco.
The icon won two National League MVP awards, earned 12 Gold Gloves and was a 24-time All-Star. From 1954 to 1966, Mays finished lower than sixth for MVP just one time. In addition to hitting .301 for his career, Mays ranks sixth all-time in home runs (660), 10th in RBI (1,909), seventh in runs scored (2,068) and 12th in hits (3,293).
Of course, Mays will always be remembered for “The Catch” in Game 1 of the 1954 World Series. The “Say Hey Kid” is arguably the best all-around player the sport has ever seen.
“Today we have lost a true legend,” Giants chairman Greg Johnson said in a statement. “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.”
Barry Bonds, Mays’ godson, reflected on the legend’s passing with a heartfelt social media post, as well.
“I am beyond devastated and overcome with emotion. 💔 I have no words to describe what you mean to me- you helped shape me 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. #SayHey”
