By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia
Willie Mays, the Hall of Famer who was often called the greatest player in baseball history, has died at the age of 93. The news broke during the Mets-Rangers game in Arlington, prompting an emotional tribute from the baseball community. “He was the best I’ve ever seen on the field,” New York Mets and St. Louis Cardinals legend Keith Hernandez said during a tearful broadcast. Hernandez, now a color commentator for the Mets, reflected on Macy’s excellent skills. “Willie would play shallow center field, which makes it even more amazing how he caught fly balls against the wall,” Mets broadcaster Gary Cohen added. “He was the best that ever played.”
Just one day earlier, it was announced that Mays would not be attending a special game dedicated to him and the Negro Leagues. Scheduled for Thursday, June 20 at Rickwood Field, the game features the San Francisco Giants and the St. Louis Cardinals. Mays, who began his career with the Birmingham Black Barons of the Negro Leagues, shared his plans to enjoy the event from home. “I won’t be in Birmingham this year, but I’ll be back here in the Bay Area following the game,” he told the San Francisco Chronicle earlier this week. “My heart goes out to all of you who honor the Negro League players who will always be remembered, including all of my teammates on the Black Barons.” A 24-time All-Star and two-time National League MVP, his 660 home runs and 12 Gold Gloves underscore his legendary status.
The home run total came despite serving in the military after a two-year hiatus from baseball and playing in three of the toughest stadiums to hit a home run in – The Polo Grounds, Candlestick Park and Shea Stadium. Major League Baseball, the city of Birmingham and the non-profit group Friends of Rickwood have partnered to restore Rickwood Field, the oldest professional ballpark in the United States, May and the Negro Leagues. Despite his absence, Macy’s will be celebrating throughout the weekend.
“My father died peacefully and surrounded by his loved ones,” said Mace’s son, Michael Mace. “I want to thank you all from the bottom of my broken heart for the unwavering love you have shown her over the years. You were his life blood.” Mays was not only a baseball legend, but also a beloved figure in San Francisco. A 9-foot bronze statue of him stands proudly at 24 Willie Mays Plaza in Oracle Park. He wanted to see an MLB tribute at Rickwood Field, where he began his career. Known for his exceptional five-arm ability — hitting, power hitting, fielding, fielding and baserunning — Mays also possessed unmatched strategic ability. In 2015, he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Obama, recognizing Macy’s impact on sports and society. “It’s because of giants like Will that a man like me can even think about running for president,” Obama said.
Throughout his life, Macy has helped others, most notably through his Say Hey Foundation, which supports underprivileged youth. “I do what I can for the people, man,” Mays said in a 2021 interview. “When children ask me for something, I give it to them. Give them that, because they’ll be here after I’m gone, and I want the kids to enjoy what they can enjoy.” Macy’s legacy is distinguished by a .302 career average, 3,283 hits and numerous accolades. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1979, cementing his place as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
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