Admittedly, I never got to see him play live or if I did (on tv) as a young kid growing up in NJ when he was with the Mets, I don’t remember.
From arguably the greatest catch ever in the World Series game - to his legendary status and all he’s done to put smiles on faces - what a man.
I was reading this week about MLB teams playing in Birmingham at an old Negroe League field as a salute. Willie was invited but said he would watch from SF as he couldn’t make it.
Obviously, there was a reason.
It’s sad when such a legend passes but what a impactful life he seemed to live, from the horrors of racism to persevering and becoming one of the greats, on and off the field.
I’m not sure there are any “legends” of baseball remaining.
No question, he was the GOAT. (I’m biased, having grown up in the Bay Area.). The 'Stick likely robbed him of30- 40 HR’s. Wind was always blowing in late afternoons.
Years later, he said the catch itself was nbd. But he was afraid of the baserunner scoring from 2nd by tagging up, something he himself had done man times, so he said his turn and throw to second in one motion was what made that play memorable as no baserunner could move up.
I’m not sure any more of the all time legends remain, certainly none from that 50s’60s era. Great players overlapped his career, especially the later years, but legends?
Legend is a bit subjective but I expect Willie Mays clears the hurdle for everyone. There are some HOFers from that era still living. Sandy Koufax may be the biggest name left? Luis Aparicio and Billy Williams for those of us from Chicago.
