On this day in 1980, the San Francisco Giants retired the great Willie McCovey's...
Posted by Buster Posey Fan Zone on
On this day in 1980, the San Francisco Giants retired the great Willie McCovey's number, 44. This very gifted first baseman is one of the all-time great Giants, especially known for his powerful playoff hitting abilities in his 19 seasons with the Giants. Some of his career highlights include: NL Rookie of the Year ('59) NL MVP ('69) 2× NL RBI leader ('68, '69) 6× All-Star ('63, '66, '68 - '71) MLB All-Star Game MVP ('69) 3× NL home run leader ('63, '68, '69)
A very special and highly sought award, the Willie Mac Award, was created in 1980 to honor the most inspirational player of the season, just as "Stretch" (one of his multiple nicknames) had been for so many years, to so many teammates. It is voted on by Giants players, coaches, staff, and now fans. McCovey personally presents the winner with the award in a pregame ceremony at AT&T Park right before the end of each season.
"The award is named after one of the greatest Giants ever, so just to have my name mentioned alongside Willie McCovey and the previous winners means a great deal to me." Buster Posey, when receiving his Willie Mac Award in 2012.
