My favorite player when I was a kid. Lifelong Giants fan as a consequence. I have a small Willie Mays shrine in my office with a signed ball, a B&W photo of him sliding into home, a 1971 Topps Card, etc. He was an example of someone who found joy not only in his profession, but in daily life. The stories of him playing stickball with little kids in Harlem are just an example of what a fine person he was and is. Happy Birthday Willie Mays!
Great post.
Willie’s contributions to the Giants certainly didn’t end with his playing career. He’s been a mentor and inspiration to generations of Giants, especially that fantastic, oddball team that managed to win three World Series under Bruce Bochy.