The Passing of a Legend
In a heartbreaking turn of events for baseball fans and sports enthusiasts worldwide, Willie Mays, the illustrious baseball icon, passed away at the age of 93. His death occurred two days before an event scheduled to honor him at Birmingham's historic Rickwood Field, where his remarkable big-league baseball career first began.
On Thursday evening, the San Francisco Giants and the St. Louis Cardinals are set to play a commemorative game at Rickwood Field. This event will serve as a celebration of Mays, the legendary ballpark, and the rich history of the Negro Leagues. Up until recently, there was hope that Mays would be able to attend the special occasion. Sadly, on Monday, he informed the San Francisco Chronicle that he would not be present, and by Tuesday, Willie Mays had passed away. Despite his absence, the evening promises to be filled with reflections, memories, and admiration for Mays' unparalleled brilliance on the baseball field.
The Early Years
Willie Mays was born in 1931, amidst the hardships of the Great Depression. He grew up in the mill towns surrounding Birmingham, Alabama. As a high school student, Mays excelled in various sports, showcasing his exceptional athletic ability. He played outfield alongside his father for a local team and later for a semi-pro outfit. Additionally, he took to the field with the Chattanooga Choo-Choos, a farm team for the Birmingham Black Barons. It was during this time that Piper Davis, the manager of the Black Barons, took notice of Mays' extraordinary talent.
The Unconventional Path
At just 16 years old, Mays was signed by the Black Barons. However, there was one stipulation from his father – Mays had to complete his high school education. Consequently, Mays was only able to participate in the Black Barons' weekend home games at Rickwood Field. His debut came in the second game of a doubleheader, where he played left field, batted seventh, and recorded two hits against the renowned pitcher Chet Brewer. A broken leg sustained by center fielder Bobby Robinson soon after provided Mays with the opportunity to take over center field duties.
Scouting the Prodigy
The spacious outfield of Rickwood Field served as the perfect stage for Mays to showcase his prodigious skills. With the major leagues opening up to African American players following Jackie Robinson's trailblazing debut in 1947, scouts began turning their attention to the Negro Leagues. Mays' performance in the ten games he played for the Black Barons, where he posted a batting average of .233/.313/.326, captured the scouts' interest. Importantly, the ten hits Mays made at Rickwood Field are included in his official MLB statistics.
In 1948, the Black Barons enjoyed a dominant season, finishing with a 63-28-2 record. They narrowly defeated the Kansas City Monarchs in the Negro American League Series. Mays' contribution, highlighted by seven hits and six walks during the series, was crucial. Although the Black Barons lost to the Homestead Grays in the Negro League World Series, Mays' once-a-week appearances were indicative of his future greatness.
The Legacy of Greatness
Mays’ initial ten major-league hits came at Rickwood Field, and fittingly, baseball will bid farewell to him at the same historic venue. "It'll be a special day, and I hope the kids will enjoy it and be inspired by it," was Mays' heartfelt sentiment about the upcoming event.
Conclusion
Rickwood Field holds the distinguished title of being the oldest professional ballpark in the United States. It was once the home ground of the Birmingham Black Barons of the Negro Leagues. An event is scheduled around Juneteenth next year to honor the Hall of Famer, Giants legend, and Birmingham native, Willie Mays. When reflecting on this honor, Mays stated, "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."
As fans and players gather to commemorate the life and legacy of Willie Mays, his enduring spirit and memories will resonate throughout Rickwood Field. This event will be a fitting tribute to one of baseball's greatest heroes, ensuring that his contributions to the sport are remembered and honored for generations to come.