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Article: Turn back the clock: Willie Mays played a vital role on '73 mets; despite his age, future Hall of Famer helped young New York club capture the 1973 National League pennant.
- Article from:
- Baseball Digest
- Article date:
- March 1, 2003
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2003 Century Publishing Co. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
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WILLIE MAYS MADE THE signature defensive play of his Hall of Fame career, 25 years before being inducted at Cooperstown.
His over-the-shoulder grab of Vic Wertz's long drive in the 1954 Fall Classic, known simply as "The Catch," laid the foundation for his reputation as the greatest center fielder of all time.
By 1973, his final season in the majors, Mays's skills had been diminished by time and age. Without him, though, the Mets might not have won their second pennant in franchise history.
"I'll always remember Willie Mays at home plate in the 1973 World Series when Bud Harrelson was called out at home plate," relief pitcher Tug McGraw said. ...