Last Updated: June 17th, 2026 by Michael Schatz
Discover the legendary players who made the New York Giants one of baseball’s most storied franchises before their move to San Francisco. From dominant pitchers to slugging superstars, these 11 players left an indelible mark on baseball history during their time in New York.
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Christy Mathewson: The First Face of Baseball
Known as “Big Six,” Christy Mathewson dominated baseball from 1900-1916 with his legendary “fadeaway” pitch. His career 2.13 ERA and 373 wins established him as one of baseball’s first superstars. Mathewson’s gentlemanly conduct and stellar performance helped legitimize baseball as America’s pastime.
Willie Mays: The Say Hey Kid’s New York Years
Before the Giants moved west, Willie Mays electrified New York with his spectacular play. His iconic “The Catch” in the 1954 World Series remains one of baseball’s greatest moments. Mays hit 279 home runs in New York and won the 1951 Rookie of the Year award.
Mel Ott: Master of the High-Leg Kick
Mel Ott spent his entire 22-year career with the Giants, becoming one of baseball’s most distinctive players with his unique high-leg kick batting stance. His 511 career home runs and 12 All-Star selections made him one of the most feared sluggers of his era.
Carl Hubbell: The Meal Ticket’s Screwball Magic
Carl Hubbell’s mastery of the screwball pitch led to two MVP awards and 253 career wins. His legendary performance striking out five consecutive Hall of Famers in the 1934 All-Star Game remains one of baseball’s most impressive achievements.
Bill Terry: The Last .400 Hitter in the National League
Bill Terry’s .401 batting average in 1930 stands as the last time a National League player hit .400. As both a player and manager, Terry maintained the Giants’ winning tradition, accumulating 2,193 career hits and a .341 lifetime batting average.
Travis Jackson: The Defensive Wizard
Travis Jackson’s exceptional defensive skills at shortstop earned him a place in baseball’s Hall of Fame. His .291 career batting average and crucial role in the 1933 World Series championship team made him a complete player in the Giants’ golden age.
Monte Irvin: Breaking Barriers with Grace
Monte Irvin helped break baseball’s color barrier with the Giants, mentoring Willie Mays and hitting a remarkable .458 in the 1951 World Series. His transition from Negro Leagues star to Major League standout paved the way for future generations.
Johnny Mize: The Big Cat’s Powerful Presence
Known as “The Big Cat” for his smooth fielding, Johnny Mize dominated National League pitching, leading the league in home runs three times. His 51-homer season in 1947 remains one of the greatest power-hitting displays in Giants history.
Frankie Frisch: The Fordham Flash
Frankie Frisch earned his nickname “The Fordham Flash” through exceptional speed and athleticism. His .316 career batting average and stellar defense at second base helped the Giants win World Series titles in 1921 and 1922.
George “High Pockets” Kelly: The Clutch-Hitting First Baseman
George “High Pockets” Kelly earned his nickname from his lanky 6’4″ frame and became one of the Giants’ most reliable run producers. Leading the National League in RBIs twice, Kelly was a key contributor to four pennant-winning teams and earned his place in the Hall of Fame.
Roger Connor: Baseball’s First Home Run King
Roger Connor was baseball’s original home run king, holding the career record of 138 home runs until Babe Ruth broke it. Standing at 6’3″, the powerful first baseman dominated during his Giants years (1883-1889, 1891-1892), posting a remarkable .319 batting average and establishing himself as one of the deadball era’s greatest sluggers.