Willie Mays, often regarded as one of the greatest baseball players in history, is a living legend whose name has been etched into the fabric of Major League Baseball (MLB). Over his storied career, Mays built a reputation not only for his exceptional athleticism but also for his leadership, charisma, and impact on the sport. From his electrifying performances on the field to his contributions to the game off the field, Willie Mays’ life is one of greatness and perseverance.
Today, Mays is not only remembered for his iconic career with the New York/San Francisco Giants and the New York Mets, but also for the legacy he has created in the world of sports. While his net worth is a reflection of his career earnings, investments, and post-retirement activities, it is his legacy as one of the game’s greatest that truly solidifies his place in history. This article takes a deep dive into Willie Mays’ life, career, net worth, and lifestyle.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Willie Howard Mays Jr. was born on May 6, 1931, in Westfield, Alabama. Raised in a working-class family, Mays was introduced to baseball at a young age. His father, a former semi-professional player, and his mother, a former softball player, were both passionate about the sport. Willie’s talent was evident early on, and he quickly made a name for himself on the baseball diamond in his hometown.
Mays’ professional career began in 1948 when he was signed by the Birmingham Black Barons, a team in the Negro Leagues. At just 17 years old, Mays played for the Black Barons, where he quickly earned a reputation for his all-around skills: a powerful bat, a swift pair of legs, and a glove that was often compared to the best in the game. It didn’t take long for Mays to catch the attention of MLB scouts.
In 1951, at the age of 20, Mays made his MLB debut with the New York Giants. He joined the team in the midst of the post-war boom of baseball, and he wasted no time in making an impact. By 1954, Mays had already become one of the most exciting players in the league. His ability to hit for power, average, and speed, combined with his stellar fielding, made him a well-rounded threat on the field. Mays’ legendary over-the-shoulder catch in the 1954 World Series, known as “The Catch,” is one of the most iconic moments in baseball history.
Legendary MLB Career
Willie Mays’ career spanned 22 seasons, during which he played for both the New York/San Francisco Giants and the New York Mets. Over his career, Mays compiled impressive stats that have become benchmarks in the history of the game. He was a 24-time All-Star, a two-time MVP (1954 and 1965), and a 12-time Gold Glove winner for his remarkable defensive skills. Mays ended his career with 660 home runs, making him one of the top home run hitters of all time, and he remains in the top 10 for career home runs in MLB history.
Aside from his hitting power, Mays was known for his base-running ability, stealing 338 bases over his career. His combination of speed and power made him one of the first truly complete players in the modern era of baseball. Mays retired in 1973 at the age of 42, leaving behind a legacy of excellence that was unmatched at the time.
Mays was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1979, a well-deserved recognition for a player whose impact on the game cannot be overstated. His number 24 was retired by both the San Francisco Giants and the New York Mets, marking him as a true legend in the sport.
Willie Mays’ Net Worth: A Breakdown
Willie Mays’ net worth today is estimated to be around $20 million. This figure is a result of his earnings during his playing career, as well as his business ventures, endorsements, and investments after retirement. While this is a significant amount, it’s important to understand that Mays’ net worth doesn’t just come from his time in the spotlight. His financial journey mirrors the evolution of athletes’ earning potential over time.
1. Salary and Contract Earnings During MLB Career
In the early days of Willie Mays’ career, salaries for Major League Baseball players were relatively modest compared to today’s standards. Mays began his career with a signing bonus of just $4,000 from the New York Giants. Over the course of his 22-year career, Mays signed several contracts, and his salary gradually increased as he became one of the league’s top stars.
In the 1960s, Mays’ salary ranged from $70,000 to $125,000 annually—considered a very significant amount at the time, though far less than the multi-million-dollar contracts we see in today’s game. Despite the relatively modest salaries of the time, Mays’ total earnings over his playing career were substantial, especially when adjusted for inflation. Mays also received bonuses for his All-Star appearances, MVP awards, and playoff performances.
2. Endorsements and Post-Retirement Ventures
After retiring from baseball in 1973, Willie Mays continued to profit from his fame through endorsement deals and other business ventures. Unlike many athletes of his time, Mays was able to capitalize on his name recognition, signing deals with major brands such as Wilson Sporting Goods and Kellogg’s. He was frequently featured in advertisements, helping to supplement his income and boost his overall wealth.
Mays also participated in corporate speaking engagements, where he was able to command substantial fees for sharing his experiences and insights with audiences. His status as a baseball icon also led to numerous appearances in documentaries, sports programs, and commercials, helping him maintain a public presence well into his retirement.
3. Investments and Real Estate
Throughout his career and after his retirement, Mays made smart investments in real estate, including ownership of properties in California and New York. Though the specifics of his real estate ventures are not widely publicized, it is well-known that Mays has managed his wealth carefully. Many former athletes have lost fortunes due to poor financial planning, but Mays’ approach to securing his financial future has allowed him to maintain a comfortable lifestyle throughout his retirement.
4. Hall of Fame Induction
In addition to his endorsements, Mays’ induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1979 was another source of income. As one of the game’s most legendary players, Mays continues to receive royalties from the Hall of Fame for memorabilia and appearances. The Hall of Fame is also a major source of revenue for retired players, and Mays’ continued association with it keeps him in the public eye and contributes to his ongoing income.
Willie Mays’ Lifestyle: A Legacy Beyond the Diamond
While Willie Mays is known for his extraordinary achievements on the baseball field, his lifestyle and legacy as an icon extend beyond the game itself. Mays was one of the first African American athletes to become a global superstar, and his achievements helped break down racial barriers both in and outside of sports.
1. Philanthropy and Social Advocacy
Throughout his career, Willie Mays was known for his commitment to giving back to the community. He has supported various causes, particularly in the realm of youth development and education. Mays has been involved in charities and events aimed at helping underprivileged children, especially in the San Francisco Bay Area.
In the 1970s, Mays established the Willie Mays Scholarship Fund, which provides financial assistance to young athletes pursuing college degrees. He also worked to support civil rights and racial equality during his playing days, understanding the platform his career provided him to influence positive change in society.
2. Personal Life and Family
Willie Mays has been married twice. His first wife was Marghuerite Wendell, whom he married in 1956, but the couple divorced in 1968. He later married Amelia Foster in 1981, and the couple remained together until her passing in 2013. Mays has maintained a relatively private life after his playing days, preferring to enjoy his time with family and close friends. Though he lives a life of comfort, Mays remains humble and grounded, despite his status as a legend in the sports world.
3. Longevity and Health
At nearly 93 years old, Willie Mays has enjoyed a long and fulfilling life. While his career on the field ended decades ago, Mays has managed to maintain his health and remains active in the baseball community. He frequently attends Giants games, Hall of Fame events, and other sporting gatherings, often seen enjoying the company of fellow legends.
Conclusion: Willie Mays’ Enduring Legacy
Willie Mays’ career is a testament to greatness in every sense of the word. Not only did he redefine what it meant to be a complete baseball player, but he also set a standard for athletes to follow both in terms of performance and character. His legacy endures through the generations of players who look up to him as a role model, as well as the millions of fans who continue to celebrate his incredible career.
With an estimated net worth of $20 million, Willie Mays has built a fortune through his baseball career, endorsements, investments, and personal ventures. But beyond the numbers, it is his lasting influence on the sport of baseball that ensures his place as one of the most beloved and respected athletes in history.
