On April 30, 1961, Willie Mays, the legendary center fielder for the San Francisco Giants, hit four home runs in a single game against the Milwaukee Braves at County Stadium in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This incredible feat marked the first time a player had hit four home runs in a single game since 1932 when Lou Gehrig accomplished the same milestone.
Mays' historic performance began in the first inning when he hit a solo home run off Braves starter Lew Burdette. He followed that up with another solo shot in the third inning, and then a three-run blast in the sixth. His fourth and final home run came in the eighth inning off reliever Seth Morehead, solidifying his place in baseball history.
The Giants won the game 14-4, with Mays driving in eight runs and setting a new club record for most home runs in a single game. His 16 total bases in the game also set a new Giants record.
Mays' four-homer game was just one of many highlights in his illustrious 22-year career. He finished his career with 660 home runs, 3,283 hits, and 1,903 RBIs, earning 24 All-Star selections, two National League MVP awards, and 12 Gold Glove Awards. In 1979, Mays was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility.
The four-homer game by Willie Mays on April 30, 1961, remains one of the most impressive single-game performances in baseball history and a testament to his incredible skill and talent as one of the greatest players to ever take the field.
