The Passing of a Legend
Willie Mays, an inner-circle baseball great, passed away at the age of 93. His death came just two days before he was to be honored at Birmingham's Rickwood Field, the historic site where his extraordinary big-league baseball career began.
On Thursday evening, the San Francisco Giants and the St. Louis Cardinals will play a commemorative game at Rickwood Field. This event is not just a tribute to Mays but also celebrates Rickwood Field and the rich history of the Negro Leagues. Although there was hope that Mays might attend the event, he informed the San Francisco Chronicle on Monday that he would not be present. Tragically, he passed away on Tuesday. Nevertheless, the evening promises to be rich with appreciations, memories, and tales of Mays' brilliance, serving as a fitting tribute to his legacy.
The Early Years
Willie Mays was born in 1931 during the Great Depression and grew up in the mill towns outside Birmingham. A gifted multi-sport athlete in high school, Mays played outfield alongside his father for a local team and later for a semi-pro outfit. His talents extended beyond local leagues as he even played for the Chattanooga Choo-Choos, a farm team for the Birmingham Black Barons. It was here that Piper Davis, the Black Barons' manager, recognized Mays' potential.
The Unconventional Path
At the young age of 16, Mays was signed by the Black Barons. His father, however, insisted that he finish high school. As a result, Mays was only able to play in the Black Barons' weekend home games at Rickwood Field. He made his debut in the second game of a doubleheader, playing left field, batting seventh, and impressively securing two hits against the formidable Chet Brewer. A subsequent injury to center fielder Bobby Robinson provided Mays the opportunity to play center field, which would become his hallmark position.
Scouting the Prodigy
The spacious outfield of Rickwood Field allowed Mays to showcase his remarkable abilities. As interest in the Negro Leagues surged following Jackie Robinson's landmark debut in 1947, scouts were drawn to Rickwood to observe Mays. In 1948, he played 10 games for the Black Barons, ending the season with a .233/.313/.326 batting average.
The Black Barons, boasting a strong 63-28-2 record, edged out the Kansas City Monarchs in the Negro American League Series, thanks in part to Mays' seven hits and six walks. However, they ultimately lost to the Homestead Grays in the Negro League World Series. Even though playing only once a week, Mays had already shown glimpses of the greatness that would define his career.
The Legacy of Greatness
Rickwood Field was more than just a ballpark for Mays; it was the launching pad for a storied career in Major League Baseball. His first 10 major-league hits were made at Rickwood, and it is fitting that baseball will bid him farewell at the same place.
"It'll be a special day, and I hope the kids will enjoy it and be inspired by it," Mays once said, reflecting on the impact of Rickwood Field on his career and its significance to future generations.
Rickwood Field holds the distinction of being the oldest professional ballpark in the U.S. It was the home of the Birmingham Black Barons of the Negro Leagues, and the forthcoming event, scheduled around Juneteenth next year, will honor Hall of Famer, Giants legend, and Birmingham native Willie Mays.
"It has been 75 years since I played for the Birmingham Black Barons at Rickwood Field, and to learn that my Giants and the Cardinals will play a game there and honor the legacy of the Negro Leagues and all those who came before them is really emotional for me. We can't forget what got us here, and that was the Negro Leagues for so many of us," Mays remarked about the forthcoming game.
Conclusion
Willie Mays' legacy is one that transcends generations and ballparks. As fans and players gather at Rickwood Field to celebrate his life and career, they will honor the enduring spirit of one of baseball's greatest heroes. The memories and tributes shared during this event will underscore the significant impact Mays had on the game of baseball and the rich history of the Negro Leagues, ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire future generations of baseball players and fans alike.