Pirates Hall of Famer Bill Mazeroski Dies at 89

Mazeroski was known for his elite defense and hitting the game-winning home run in the 1960 World Series.

Feb. 21, 2026 at 2:20pm

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Bill Mazeroski, a Hall of Fame second baseman who spent his entire 17-year MLB career with the Pittsburgh Pirates, has passed away at the age of 89. Mazeroski was an eight-time Gold Glove winner, two-time World Series champion, and the only player to hit a walk-off home run in Game 7 of a World Series, helping the Pirates defeat the New York Yankees in 1960.

Why it matters

Mazeroski was beloved by Pirates fans and is considered one of the greatest players to ever wear the team's uniform, alongside legends like Roberto Clemente. His passing comes as the Pirates prepare to start spring training, marking the end of an era for the franchise.

The details

Mazeroski was known for his exceptional defensive skills, with the Pirates retiring his number 9 jersey in 1987. During his Hall of Fame induction speech in 2001, he emphasized the importance of defense in baseball, saying "Defense belongs in the Hall of Fame. Defense deserves as much credit as pitching and hitting, and I'm proud and honored to be going into the Hall of Fame on the defensive side and mostly for my defensive abilities."

  • Mazeroski passed away on February 21, 2026.
  • The Pirates start their spring training games on Saturday, February 25, 2026.

The players

Bill Mazeroski

A Hall of Fame second baseman who spent his entire 17-year MLB career with the Pittsburgh Pirates, known for his elite defensive skills and hitting the game-winning home run in Game 7 of the 1960 World Series.

Roberto Clemente

A legendary Pirates player who is considered one of the greatest to ever wear the team's uniform, alongside Bill Mazeroski.

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What they’re saying

“I think defense belongs in the Hall of Fame. Defense deserves as much credit as pitching and hitting, and I'm proud and honored to be going into the Hall of Fame on the defensive side and mostly for my defensive abilities.”

— Bill Mazeroski (MLB.com)

“I don't know it's out. I don't know it's a home run. But I know I'm going to end up on third if he misplays that ball off the wall. So I'm busting my tail getting around there, and by the time I hit second base, I looked down the line and the fans went crazy. From second base, I didn't touch the ground all the way in.”

— Bill Mazeroski (MLB.com)

What’s next

The Pirates will start their spring training games on Saturday, February 25, 2026, marking the first time they will take the field without Mazeroski since he joined the team in 1956.

The takeaway

Bill Mazeroski's passing is a significant loss for the Pirates franchise and their fans, as he was one of the greatest defensive players in MLB history and a key figure in the team's 1960 World Series championship. His legacy as a Hall of Famer and beloved Pirate will continue to inspire the team and its supporters as they move forward.