1961 Willie Mays San Francisco Giants Game-Used & Autographed Cap Gifted To Waite Hoyt Attributed To Incredible Single-Game Four Home Run Performance

Willie Mays’ Historic Cap: A Legendary Piece of Baseball Memorabilia

The Say Hey Kid’s Unforgettable Legacy

Willie Mays, affectionately known as “The Say Hey Kid,” is widely celebrated as one of the greatest all-around players in baseball history. His illustrious career is adorned with numerous accolades, including two MVP awards and a record-tying twenty-four All-Star Game appearances. Mays concluded his career with an astounding 660 home runs, securing his place as a baseball legend. In 1999, he was ranked second on The Sporting News list of the 100 Greatest Baseball Players, making him the highest-ranking living player at the time.

A Cap from a Historic Day

On April 30th, 1961, Willie Mays etched his name into the annals of baseball history by hitting four home runs in a single game for the San Francisco Giants against the Milwaukee Braves. This remarkable feat made him the seventh player since 1900 to achieve such a milestone. The cap attributed to this historic day is now offered in this exclusive lot.

The cap features the McAuliffe manufacturer’s tag and the “KM PRO CAP” stamp, with a size marking of “7 5/8,” although it measures smaller, which is fitting for Mays. The iconic “SF” logo is embroidered in orange on the front of the black cap. Under the brim, “MAYS 24” is handwritten in black marker, alongside Mays’ signature and the inscriptions “To Waite” and “May 30th 1961,” though the latter is heavily faded. Additionally, the cap bears the inscription “CAP WORN BY MAYS WHEN HE HIT 4 HOME RUNS APRIL 30TH MILWAUKEE” in black ink.

A Gift to Remember

This cap was gifted by Willie Mays to Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame announcer Waite Hoyt on May 30th, 1961. It is accompanied by a Full Letter of Authenticity from JSA and a copy of a letter from Waite Hoyt, detailing that the cap was his and was worn during Mays’ legendary four-home-run game on April 30th.

Why This Cap Matters

• Historical Significance: Worn during one of the most iconic performances in baseball history.
• Iconic Player: Represents Willie Mays, a Hall of Famer and one of the greatest players of all time.
• Unique Provenance: Gifted to a Hall of Fame announcer, adding a layer of personal history and connection.
• Condition and Story: The inscriptions and signature tell a story of a remarkable day in baseball history.

This cap is not just a piece of fabric; it is a testament to Willie Mays’ enduring legacy and the indelible mark he left on the game. For those interested in acquiring a piece of baseball history, this cap represents an unparalleled opportunity. Explore more about our baseball memorabilia auctions and discover other legendary items in our collection. If you have your own piece of history, consider our consignment services to share your treasures with the world.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.