San Francisco Giants: The Best Willie Mac Award Seasons

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Aug 10, 2013; San Francisco, CA, USA; San Francisco Giants left fielder Andres Torres (56) reacts in the dugout after the Giants take a two run lead against the Baltimore Orioles during the sixth inning at AT&T Park. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /

The San Francisco Giants have annually given out the Willie Mac Award to honor the most inspirational player. For the last 36 years, players who weren’t necessarily the best on the team, would be honored with the prestigious award at the end of the season.

Willie McCovey played 19 seasons for the Giants and his last season in 1980 was also the first season the award was given.

Willie Mac Award winners have rarely been the best players on the team. Pitcher Mike Krukow and catcher Bengi Molina have each won the award twice, but neither put up the numbers to compare with the best players since 1980.

Some winners, such as pitcher Dave Dravecky, didn’t pitch enough to have the numbers on the field. However, the very essence of this award is to honor the players that inspire the other 24 to play at a higher level.

So, just for fun, let’s look at the best seasons from past Willie Mac winners, according to baseball reference Wins Above Replacement. Of the 36 winners, 12 Giants have earned a 4-win season or better.