In Memoriam: Honoring Willie Mays at Rickwood Field
The baseball world mourns the loss of a legend as Willie Mays, an inner-circle baseball great, passed away at the age of 93. Sadly, Mays died just two days before he was to be honored at Birmingham's historic Rickwood Field, a venue where his remarkable big-league baseball journey began.
On Thursday evening, the San Francisco Giants and the St. Louis Cardinals will take to the field at Rickwood in a game that celebrates not only Mays but also the legacy of Rickwood Field and the Negro Leagues. Though the event will proceed without Mays, it is sure to be filled with heartfelt appreciations, cherished memories, and stories of Mays' unparalleled brilliance on the diamond.
The Early Years
Born in 1931 during the Great Depression, Willie Mays was raised in the mill towns surrounding Birmingham. From an early age, his immense talent as a multi-sport athlete was evident. While in high school, he played in the outfield alongside his father for a local team and then for a semi-pro outfit. Additionally, Mays played for the Chattanooga Choo-Choos, a farm team affiliated with the Birmingham Black Barons.
It was during this time that Piper Davis, the Black Barons' manager, took notice of young Mays' extraordinary skills.
An Unconventional Path
At just 16 years old, Mays was signed by the Black Barons. His father, however, insisted that Mays complete his high school education. As a result, Mays could only 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 formidable pitcher Chet Brewer. A subsequent injury to center fielder Bobby Robinson allowed Mays to assume the position of center field, where his prowess truly began to shine.
Scouting the Prodigy
The expansive outfield at Rickwood Field provided a perfect stage for Mays to demonstrate his remarkable abilities. During this period, many scouts were drawn to the Negro Leagues in the aftermath of Jackie Robinson's historic debut in 1947. Mays' performance in the 10 games he played for the Black Barons was notable, with a batting average of .233/.313/.326. Importantly, the 10 hits he achieved at Rickwood are forever enshrined in his official MLB statistics.
The Black Barons had a powerful lineup in 1948, achieving an impressive 63-28-2 record. They narrowly edged out the Kansas City Monarchs in the Negro American League Series, with Mays contributing seven hits and six walks. The team eventually lost to the Homestead Grays in the Negro League World Series, yet Mays' consistent weekly performances were clear indications of his future greatness.
A Legacy of Greatness
It is poignant that Mays’ first 10 major league hits came at Rickwood Field, a place that served as the launching pad for his illustrious career. Now, as baseball prepares to bid farewell to Mays, it is at the same hallowed ground where his journey began.
The scheduled event coincides with Juneteenth next year, a poignant reminder of the struggles and triumphs within the Black community and the history of the Negro Leagues. It will stand as a testament to the Hall of Famer, Giants Legend, and Birmingham native, Willie Mays. Reflecting on the importance of the venue and the upcoming tribute, Mays had shared his emotions with the San Francisco Chronicle earlier: "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."
Conclusion
Rickwood Field, the oldest professional ballpark in the United States and the former home of the Birmingham Black Barons, will resonate with memories of Mays' incredible career during the event. As fans and players gather, they will celebrate the enduring legacy and spirit of one of baseball's greatest heroes. The evening promises to be a special day of inspiration and remembrance, honoring the irreplaceable Willie Mays and the historical significance of Rickwood Field.