The Last Great One. It is truly the end of an era in baseball. There is no one alive who has a bad word for Willie Mays.
Perhaps the greatest baseball player of all time is Willie Mays. While other legends like Babe Ruth, Henry Aaron, Barry Bonds, Josh Gibson, and Oscar Charleston are often mentioned, Mays stands out because there are no significant weaknesses in his game. Unlike other players, Mays excelled in every aspect of the sport, making him a true all-around talent.
24-time All-Star, 12-time Gold Glover, 2-time MVP, World Series champion, Hall of Famer.
MLB Network mourns the passing of one of our game’s most iconic figures, Willie Mays. pic.twitter.com/gQLCnbm2lN
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) June 19, 2024
Mays could run, as evidenced by leading the National League in baserunning runs at the age of 40 in 1971. He could field, with his 1954 World Series catch remaining one of the most iconic plays in baseball history, securing his status with 12 Gold Glove awards. Mays could throw, with one of his most legendary throws occurring in 1965, which was hailed as the greatest throw ever made in ancient Forbes Field.
I’m very sorry to hear about the passing of #WillieMays, the greatest @SFGiants & one of the best baseball players to have ever lived. I had the honor of meeting him in 2014 & was in awe of his story & perseverance. May this inspirational hero rest in peace. #RIP pic.twitter.com/B6oFEnEoih
— Asm Phil Ting (@AsmPhilTing) June 19, 2024
Mays’ hitting prowess is equally impressive, with a lifetime batting average of .301 during the pitching-dominant 1960s. He boasted ten seasons with a .300 average and nearly 3,300 career hits. His power was unmatched for his size, with 660 home runs despite missing nearly two full seasons due to military service. He led the league in home runs four times.
Modern analytics suggest Mays could have won more MVP awards under today’s voting criteria, which focus more on statistical value rather than team success or subjective qualities. For instance, in 1955, Mays had a better season statistically than the actual winner, Roy Campanella. Similarly, in 1960, 1962, 1963, and 1964, Mays’ performance could have earned him additional MVPs based on his WAR (Wins Above Replacement) and overall contributions.
“Remembering Willie Mays as Both Untouchable and Human” by Kurt Streeter #NYT #NewYorkTimes https://t.co/Sv9sgv0GEz pic.twitter.com/KIFSSFC8vE
— Michael Gabrill (@Gabrill_Michael) June 19, 2024
In total, if modern voting criteria had been applied, Mays might have ended his career with eight MVP awards, surpassing Barry Bonds’ record of seven. This hypothetical tally underscores Mays’ unparalleled impact on the game.
Ultimately, Willie Mays’ legacy is that of an authentic baseball genius, a player whose skills in running, fielding, throwing, and hitting were second to none. Fifty-one years after his final game, his brilliance continues to be celebrated, cementing his place as perhaps the greatest baseball player of all time. I had a Willie Mays card once and traded it for a used car many years ago. The worst decision I think I have made in a very long time now.
Key Points:
i. Willie Mays is often regarded as the greatest all-around baseball player, excelling in hitting, fielding, throwing, running, and power.
ii. Mays appeared in 24 All-Star Games and won 12 Gold Gloves, highlighting his exceptional skills and longevity in the sport.
iii. Despite only winning two MVP awards during his career, modern analytics suggest he could have won up to eight based on his statistical value and overall performance.
iv. Mays’ career achievements include a .301 lifetime batting average, 660 home runs, and nearly 3,300 hits, with many prime years during the pitching-dominant 1960s.
v. Mays’ legacy is celebrated for his consistent excellence across all aspects of the game, making him a unique and unparalleled figure in baseball history.
Conner T – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News