Johnny Mize was already a four-time All-Star and two-time MVP runner-up for the St. Louis Cardinals, but the New York Giants coveted the First Baseman, as their player, Babe Young, was about to serve in the military for World War II. The Giants purchased Mize's contract in 1942, and he had another good year, winning the Slugging Title (.521) and RBI Title (110) while batting .305. He was named an All-Star, but like so many, Mize had to depart for his military duty and would not return until 1946.
Mize was able to come back in 1946, and though he was in his early 30s, he was still a potent hitter and had his best power seasons in Baseball. In 1947, he was third in MVP voting, leading the NL in Runs (137), Home Runs (51), and RBIs (137) and batting over .300 for the last time in his career (.302). Mize again won the Home Run Title in 1948 (41).
As good as Mize remained, the Giants traded him to the Yankees, where he was still a capable batter and would help the Yankees win five consecutive World Series Titles (1949-53). With the Giants, he blasted 157 Home Runs with a .299 Batting Average.
Mize was finally elected into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1981 via the Veterans Committee.
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