1960 Yankees vs Pirates World Series (Bill Mazeroski Walk-off)

Lore & Background

Mazeroski's home run came in the bottom of the ninth inning of Game 7 off reliever Ralph Terry at Forbes Field. The Yankees had tied the game 9–9 in the top of the ninth. Mazeroski led off the bottom half and hit the dramatic home run. ESPN ranked the World Series winner at the top of its list of the 100 Greatest Home Runs of All Time, while Sports Illustrated had it eighth in its compilation of the 100 Greatest Moments in Sports History. Mazeroski received the Babe Ruth Award for his play in the Series, during which he batted .320.

In Their Own Story

The air at Forbes Field was thick with tension and the smell of cut grass. Ralph Terry stood on the mound, his arm heavy from a grueling start, staring down Bill Mazeroski in the bottom of the ninth. The score was deadlocked at nine runs apiece, a number that seemed to hover over the stadium like an omen. Mantle watched from the dugout, his eyes fixed on the pitcher's rubber. Terry wound up and delivered. The crack of the bat echoed differently than usual—a sharp, clean report that sent the ball sailing toward the left-field fence. It didn't bounce; it cleared the wall entirely, silencing the Bronx faithful in an instant as the Pirates erupted into chaos.

Reader's Guide

Mazeroski played his entire MLB career for the Pittsburgh Pirates from 1956 to 1972. He was a ten-time All-Star and eight-time Gold Glove Award winner, known for his defensive play and ability to turn double plays. His 1,706 career double plays remain a major league record for a second baseman. He also hit 138 career home runs and 853 RBIs, the most by any second baseman between 1944 and 1974. He helped the Pirates to three consecutive division titles and was a member of the 1960 and 1971 World Series championship teams.

Did You Know?

• Mazeroski's home run in Game 7 of the 1960 World Series was the first time the major league season ended with a home run.
• It remains the only walk-off home run to clinch a World Series championship in Game 7.
• Mazeroski was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2001.
• His 161 double plays in 1966 remain the major league record for second basemen.