Willie Mays’ Biography, Nationality, Age, Properties, Weight, Height, Records, Lifestyle, and Hobbies
Biography:
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- Full Name: Willie Howard Mays Jr.
- Birthdate: May 6, 1931
- Birthplace: Westfield, Alabama, U.S.
- Nationality: American
- Occupation: Professional baseball center fielder
Awards:
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- Played 23 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB).
- 24-time All-Star, tied for the second most in history.
- NL Rookie of the Year (1951).
- 2× NL MVP (1954, 1965).
- 12× Gold Glove Award (1957–1968).
- Hit 4 home runs in one game on April 30, 1961.
- Over-the-shoulder catch in Game 1 of the 1954 World Series is iconic.
Teams:
- Negro Leagues: Birmingham Black Barons (1948).
- Major League Baseball:
- New York / San Francisco Giants (1951–1972).
- New York Mets (1972–1973).
Nationality:
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- Willie Mays is American by nationality.
Age:
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- At the time of his passing on June 18, 2024, Mays was 93 years old.
Height and Weight:
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- Mays stood at 5 feet 9 inches (180 centimeters) tall and weighed approximately 180 pounds (82 kilograms).
Lifestyle and Hobbies:
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- Mays was an all-around athlete.
- His love for baseball extended beyond the field.
- While specific hobbies aren’t widely documented, his legacy remains indelible.
Detailed Biography
Born on May 6, 1931, in Westfield, Alabama, Willie Mays was an all-around athlete from a young age. He joined the Birmingham Black Barons of the Negro American League in 1948, showcasing his talent and versatility. The New York Giants signed him upon his high school graduation in 1950, launching his Major League Baseball (MLB) career. Mays debuted with the Giants in 1951 and made an immediate impact, winning the Rookie of the Year Award after hitting 20 home runs. In 1954, he secured the NL Most Valuable Player (MVP) Award, leading the Giants to their last World Series title before their move to the West Coast.
His over-the-shoulder catch in Game 1 of the 1954 World Series remains one of the most iconic moments in baseball history. Mays played 23 seasons in MLB, primarily with the New York / San Francisco Giants and later the New York Mets. His athleticism, fielding skills, and charisma made him one of the greatest players ever.
With 24 All-Star appearances, he ranks second in history. His No. 24 jersey is retired by both the San Francisco Giants and the New York Mets.
- After retiring as a player, Mays remained involved in baseball as a coach and ambassador.
- He passed away on June 18, 2024, leaving behind a legacy that transcends the sport.
