Willie Dean McGee, born on November 2, 1958, is an American professional baseball coach and former outfielder, currently serving as an assistant coach for the St. Louis Cardinals in Major League Baseball (MLB). With a career spanning 18 seasons, McGee left an indelible mark on the sport, winning accolades for his exceptional skills both at bat and in the field.
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Early Life and Career Beginnings
McGee’s journey to baseball stardom began after graduating from Harry Ells High School in Richmond, California, in 1976. The Chicago White Sox selected him in the 7th round of the June amateur entry draft, but McGee opted to attend Diablo Valley Community College instead. However, his talent didn’t go unnoticed, and he was later chosen by the New York Yankees in the 1st round of the 1977 January amateur entry draft.
From 1977 to 1981, McGee honed his skills in the Yankees’ minor league farm system, steadily rising to the Class AA level.
Image Credit: Baseball Egg
1982–1989: St. Louis Cardinals Glory Days
A pivotal moment in McGee’s career occurred when he was acquired by the St. Louis Cardinals from the Yankees’ farm system on October 21, 1981, in a trade for pitcher Bob Sykes. In his rookie year (1982), McGee made an immediate impact, batting .296 with 4 home runs and 56 runs batted in during the regular season.
However, it was McGee’s exceptional performance in Game 3 of the 1982 World Series that etched his name in baseball history. He hit two home runs and made a crucial leaping catch, securing the Cardinals’ victory. McGee became the third rookie to achieve such a feat in a World Series game.
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Throughout the 1980s, McGee, alongside teammates Ozzie Smith, Tom Herr, and Vince Coleman, embodied “Whiteyball.” This strategic style emphasized fundamentals, defense, speedy baserunning, and situational play.
In 1985, McGee’s remarkable season included leading the National League in batting average (.353), hits (216), and triples (18). He also secured a Gold Glove Award, a Silver Slugger Award, and the 1985 NL Most Valuable Player title.
Despite falling short in the 1985 World Series against the Kansas City Royals, McGee’s contributions to the Cardinals’ success were undeniable.
1990–1995: Later Years and Legacy
The 1990 season marked the end of the “Whiteyball” era, and McGee was traded to the Oakland Athletics. He played a key role in the Athletics reaching the 1990 World Series, marking his fourth appearance in the Fall Classic.
In 1994, McGee joined the San Francisco Giants, continuing to showcase his consistency and productivity at the plate. An ankle injury in 1994 signaled a temporary setback, but McGee demonstrated resilience by signing with the Boston Red Sox in 1995.
Remarkably, McGee returned to the St. Louis Cardinals in 1996 as a free agent. Despite a reduced role, he provided memorable moments, including a pinch-hit home run in the 1997 home opener.
Willie McGee played his final MLB game on October 3, 1999, leaving a lasting legacy as one of the game’s beloved and skilled players. His career highlights, including four All-Star selections, three Gold Glove Awards, and two batting titles, solidify his place as an MLB legend.
Willie McGee Age
How old is Willie McGee? Willie McGee was born on November 2, 1958.
Willie McGee Height
How tall is Willie McGee? Willie McGee stands at a height of 6 feet 1 inch.
Education
Willie McGee attended Diablo Valley College and Harry Ells High School.
Willie McGee Number
Willie McGee plays number 51.
Willie McGee Position
Willie McGee is an Outfielder.
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