Bill Mazeroski, Iconic Pirates Player, Dies at 89

Mazeroski hit the only Game 7 walk-off home run in World Series history.

Feb. 21, 2026 at 7:50pm

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Former Pittsburgh Pirates second baseman Bill Mazeroski, who hit the iconic walk-off home run in Game 7 of the 1960 World Series, passed away at the age of 89 on Friday. Mazeroski is the only player in MLB history to hit a walk-off home run in a Game 7 of the World Series, helping the Pirates defeat the Yankees for their third championship.

Why it matters

Mazeroski's walk-off home run in the 1960 World Series is considered one of the greatest moments in baseball history. As a second baseman, he is also widely regarded as one of the best defensive players at his position. His passing marks the end of an era for the Pittsburgh Pirates franchise, which he spent his entire 17-year career with.

The details

In the bottom of the 9th inning of Game 7 of the 1960 World Series, Mazeroski hit a solo home run off Yankees pitcher Ralph Terry to give the Pirates a 10-9 victory and their third World Series championship. Mazeroski was an 8-time Gold Glove winner and his number 9 jersey was retired by the Pirates in 1987.

  • Mazeroski passed away on Friday, February 21, 2026.
  • In 1960, Mazeroski hit the iconic walk-off home run in Game 7 of the World Series.

The players

Bill Mazeroski

Former Pittsburgh Pirates second baseman who is the only player in MLB history to hit a walk-off home run in Game 7 of the World Series. He was an 8-time Gold Glove winner and had his number 9 jersey retired by the Pirates in 1987.

Ralph Terry

New York Yankees pitcher who gave up Mazeroski's walk-off home run in Game 7 of the 1960 World Series.

Rob Manfred

The current Commissioner of Major League Baseball.

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What they’re saying

“Bill Mazeroski was synonymous with one of the greatest home runs in baseball history for more than 65 years.”

— Rob Manfred, MLB Commissioner (MLB)

What’s next

The Pittsburgh Pirates are expected to hold a memorial service and tribute to Mazeroski in the coming days.

The takeaway

Mazeroski's iconic walk-off home run in the 1960 World Series cemented his legacy as one of the greatest players in Pittsburgh Pirates history and one of the most memorable moments in baseball lore. His passing marks the end of an era for the franchise and the game.