10 Essential Facts About the Pirates Legend and 1960 World Series Hero

Bill Mazeroski, the Hall of Fame second baseman whose ninth-inning walk-off home run in Game 7 of the 1960 World Series remains one of baseball’s most iconic moments, died Friday, February 20, 2026, at age 89. The Pittsburgh Pirates announced his passing early Saturday, with no cause disclosed.

Mazeroski’s dramatic blast off New York Yankees reliever Ralph Terry on October 13, 1960, ended the Series with a 10-9 Pirates victory — the only Game 7 walk-off homer to decide a World Series. The moment, etched in Pittsburgh lore, capped an improbable upset over the powerhouse Yankees and defined Mazeroski’s legacy.

Here are 10 essential facts about Bill Mazeroski that every baseball fan should know:

1. Born and Raised Near Pittsburgh William Stanley Mazeroski was born September 5, 1936, in Wheeling, West Virginia, just across the Ohio River from Pittsburgh. He grew up in nearby Ohio County and starred in baseball, basketball and football at Warren Consolidated High School. The Pirates signed him at 17 in 1954, and he never played for another major-league team.
2. Defensive Wizardry Earned Eight Gold Gloves Mazeroski won eight consecutive Gold Glove Awards at second base from 1961 to 1967, plus another in 1969 — a record for second basemen at the time. He led the National League in assists nine times, double plays eight times and fielding percentage three times. His career .983 fielding percentage ranks among the all-time elite, and he holds MLB records for most double plays turned by a second baseman (1,706) and most seasons leading the league in double plays.
3. The 1960 World Series Walk-Off Home Run In Game 7 at Forbes Field, Mazeroski hit a leadoff home run in the bottom of the ninth to give the Pirates a 10-9 victory and their first World Series title since 1925. The Pirates, heavy underdogs, overcame a 7-0 deficit earlier in the game. Mazeroski’s blast remains the only Game 7 walk-off homer to end a World Series, and he circled the bases in disbelief as fans stormed the field.
4. Entire 17-Year Career with the Pirates Mazeroski debuted in 1956 at age 19 and retired after the 1972 season, spending all 17 years with Pittsburgh. He appeared in 2,163 games — all at second base — collecting 2,016 hits, 138 home runs and 853 RBIs with a .260/.299/.367 slash line. He made seven All-Star teams (1958-62, 1967, 1971) and helped the Pirates win another World Series in 1971.
5. Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2001 The Veterans Committee elected Mazeroski to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2001, recognizing his unparalleled defensive skill despite modest offensive numbers. His .299 on-base percentage is the lowest of any non-pitcher in Cooperstown, sparking debate over criteria, but supporters highlighted his glove work as revolutionary. He was inducted alongside Kirby Puckett and Dave Winfield.
6. Pirates Retired His No. 9 in 1987 The Pirates retired Mazeroski’s No. 9 on August 7, 1987, during a ceremony at Three Rivers Stadium. A statue commemorating his 1960 home run stands outside PNC Park’s right-field gate, capturing him rounding the bases. He remains one of only six Pirates with retired numbers.
7. Member of the Inaugural Pirates Hall of Fame Class In 2022, the Pirates launched their Hall of Fame and named Mazeroski to the inaugural class alongside Roberto Clemente, Willie Stargell, Honus Wagner, Pie Traynor and Ralph Kiner. He attended the ceremony, receiving a standing ovation from fans.
8. Quiet, Humble Personality Known for humility and grace, Mazeroski avoided the spotlight after retirement. He lived in the Pittsburgh area, attended occasional Pirates events and rarely granted interviews. Teammates and fans described him as approachable and unassuming, qualities that endeared him to generations.
9. Influence on Defensive Standards Mazeroski’s quick release, range and double-play execution set benchmarks for second basemen. He mentored later Pirates infielders and remained a reference point for defensive excellence. Analysts often cite his glove work as justification for Hall inclusion despite offensive limitations.
10. Enduring Legacy in Pittsburgh Mazeroski’s 1960 home run symbolizes Pittsburgh sports triumph, replayed annually during World Series coverage. The city named a street “Mazeroski Way” near the old Forbes Field site, and his statue draws visitors to PNC Park. His death prompted tributes from MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred, the Hall of Fame and former teammates, who praised his character and contributions.

Mazeroski is survived by his wife Milinda, sons Darren and David, and grandchildren. Funeral arrangements were pending as of Saturday, February 21, 2026.

His passing marks the end of an era for Pirates fans, but his name and that unforgettable swing remain forever tied to one of baseball’s greatest moments.