Willie Mays completed 23 major league seasons as a professional baseball center fielder, marking a career that began in the Negro leagues and spanned decades in the National League. Recognized for an exceptional range of skills, he played for the Birmingham Black Barons, the New York and San Francisco Giants, and the New York Mets before retiring in 1973.
Early Professional Development
Born in 1931 in Westfield, Alabama, Mays attended Fairfield High Preparatory School. His professional trajectory began in 1948 with the Birmingham Black Barons of the Negro American League. Upon graduating from high school in 1950, he signed with the New York Giants. Before joining the major leagues, he played for the Trenton Giants and the Triple-A Minneapolis Millers, where he established his reputation as a high-performing athlete.
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Mays debuted in the National League in 1951, securing the Rookie of the Year Award that same season. His tenure was defined by consistent production, including 24 All-Star game appearances. He led the National League in home runs four times and slugging percentage five times. His defensive work remained a benchmark for the position, highlighted by his 12 consecutive Rawlings Gold Glove Awards starting in 1957.
Statistical Standing
By the time he retired following a stint with the New York Mets, Mays had compiled a .301 career batting average. His final tallies included 660 home runs and 1,903 runs batted in. He set numerous Major League records, including 2,829 games played as a center fielder and 7,095 putouts as an outfielder. In 1979, he was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum.
Later Life and Recognition
Following his retirement as a player, Mays transitioned into a coaching role with the Mets. He later served as a special assistant to the president and general manager of the Giants. His contributions were honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2015 and an induction into the California Hall of Fame in 2007. He died in 2024 in Palo Alto.
Fast facts
- Born: 1931, Westfield
- Died: 2024, Palo Alto
- Primary Position: Center fielder
- Professional debut: 1948
- Retirement year: 1973
- Hall of Fame induction: 1979
- Presidential Medal of Freedom: 2015
Questions readers ask
Which teams did Willie Mays play for during his career?
He played for the Birmingham Black Barons, the New York/San Francisco Giants, and the New York Mets.
How many times was Willie Mays an All-Star?
He was selected as an All-Star 24 times.
Achievements
- Presidential Medal of Freedom
- Major League Baseball Most Valuable Player Award
- Associated Press Athlete of the Year
- California Hall of Fame
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