The Say Hey Summer: When immortal Willie Mays dazzled N.J. baseball fans with the Trenton Giants

Willie Mays of the Giants shows some gifts he received before the game from fans in Trenton, N.J., , where he used to play before they lost their franchise, Aug. 11, 1957. (AP Photo)

Giants star Willie Mays shows some gifts he received in 1957 from baseball fans in Trenton, where he played before reaching the major leagues. (AP Photo)ASSOCIATED PRESS

By
  • Phil CornellNJ Advance Media

“Speedy, Good Hitter and Fielder,” described the headline in the Trenton Evening Times sports section of Sunday June 25, 1950, about a “sensational, 19-year-old centerfielder” who was joining the minor league Trenton Giants after three seasons in his home state of Alabama with the Birmingham Black Barons of the Negro Leagues.

Praise was heaped in particular on the outfielder’s cannon of an arm that could cut down any runner trying for an extra base. His arm was so strong, the Times report wondered if he was playing the right position.

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