Game 2 of the 1973 World Series was a memorable, if challenging, stage for baseball legend Willie Mays. At 42 years old, Mays was playing in what would be his final big league start in Game 1, and his presence in Game 2 was marked by both his enduring skill and the difficulties posed by the conditions. The game, which became the longest in Series history at four hours and 13 minutes, was characterized by "blinding sunshine" that turned every fly ball into
an adventure, a particular challenge for the veteran outfielder. Mays' performance in this game, including a crucial late-game hit, provided a poignant capstone to his storied career.
Battling the Sun and the Clock
The intense sunshine during Game 2 significantly impacted play, especially for outfielders. Curt Gowdy, in the official MLB 1973 Fall Classic highlight film, noted how the sun made every fly ball an "adventure." For Willie Mays, this proved to be a recurring challenge. In the ninth inning, with the Athletics attempting a comeback, Deron Johnson hit a fly ball to center field. Mays, battling the sun, lost sight of the ball and fell down while chasing it, allowing Johnson to reach second base. This moment underscored the difficult playing conditions and the physical toll of the game on even the most experienced players. Despite these struggles, Mays remained a central figure in the Mets' efforts.
A Crucial Hit and a Controversial Call
As the game stretched into extra innings, Mays' veteran presence became even more critical. In the tenth inning, after a controversial call at the plate where Bud Harrelson was ruled out despite replays suggesting he sidestepped the tag, Mays was visibly upset. He joined Harrelson and manager Yogi Berra in a heated outburst directed at umpire Augie Donatelli. This moment highlighted Mays' passion and competitive spirit, even in the twilight of his career. His involvement in the dispute demonstrated his commitment to his team and the integrity of the game.
The Final Hit and RBI
The game remained tied at 6–6 until the top of the 12th inning. With two outs and Bud Harrelson on third base, Willie Mays stepped up to the plate. He delivered a single that drove in Harrelson, giving the Mets a 7–6 lead. This clutch hit proved to be the final hit and RBI of Mays' legendary career, a fitting, if understated, end to his offensive contributions in the big leagues. While the game continued with more scoring, Mays' decisive single in the 12th inning stands as a significant moment, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure even at an advanced age and in challenging circumstances. His final World Series appearance was a testament to his enduring legacy in baseball.
