Willie McCovey, the legendary San Francisco Giants first baseman, was known for his modesty and reluctance to seek the spotlight. Unlike many of his peers, McCovey rarely capitalized on book deals or media projects, often turning down such offers.
Chris Haft, a long-time Giants beat writer, was one of those who approached McCovey with the idea of writing a biography. Despite their close relationship and Haft earning McCovey’s trust, the baseball great declined.
“I just respected him so much,” Haft shared. “If he didn’t want it, that’s fine, and he didn’t want it.”
Even after McCovey passed away in October 2018, Haft didn’t abandon the idea of writing about the beloved player. Instead, he sought approval from McCovey’s daughter, Allison, who gave her blessing to the project. Haft made a promise: if Allison had said no, the book would never have been written.
“I’m glad Allison said yes,” Haft remarked. “If she had said no, I would not have written it, I swear to you.”
The result of Haft’s efforts is *A Giant Among Giants: The Baseball Life of Willie McCovey*. This biography is a tribute to McCovey, recounting his baseball achievements and personal life, while reinforcing his legacy.
Allison McCovey explained that her father often turned down book and documentary offers, partly because he didn’t want to revisit the racism he endured growing up in Mobile, Alabama, and throughout his career. He also disliked the sensationalism that often accompanied such projects.
“He was very, very private and more of an introvert,” she said. “He internalized a lot of things. There were traumatic experiences he had in Mobile as a kid. The Hall of Fame was different. That brought him a lot of joy. That was the pinnacle for him.”
For Haft, McCovey was always a personal favorite. Growing up in Menlo Park, he attended Giants games at Candlestick Park, and recalls McCovey’s powerful home run in 1969 against Pittsburgh. As a journalist, Haft had many opportunities to interview McCovey, using these conversations alongside interviews with over 100 of McCovey’s friends and teammates to create the book.
One of McCovey’s closest friends, former pitcher Vida Blue, was initially cautious about the biography. Blue’s skepticism stemmed from his strong affection for McCovey and his desire to ensure the book was respectful. After hearing Haft’s intentions, Blue gave his verbal approval and shared stories with him.
Haft’s book highlights McCovey’s impact on the Giants and the sport in general. The Giants have honored McCovey with a statue in Oracle Park, located near McCovey Cove, and the annual Willie Mac Award continues to recognize the team’s most inspirational player.
The book provides new insights into McCovey’s career, including his famous 4-for-4 debut against Hall of Famer Robin Roberts, his near-miss in the 1962 World Series, and his MVP-winning season. It also touches on McCovey’s challenges with various managers and teammates, as well as the racism he faced during his career.
Haft also reflects on McCovey’s personal hardships, particularly his knee problems, which kept him from playing golf during his retirement. Despite these challenges, McCovey’s positive attitude remained evident, even as his body grew weaker.
“He was literally loved,” Haft said, recalling the emotional reactions of fans when McCovey retired. “It was spontaneous. It went on and on and on.”
The book also sheds light on the struggles McCovey faced in dealing with racism, drawing from interviews Haft conducted with McCovey and his family. It offers a modern perspective on McCovey’s life and legacy, reinforcing the respect and admiration people had for him.
With Father’s Day approaching, Haft’s biography adds to the growing collection of Giants-related books. Other notable titles include *Skipper: Why Baseball Managers Matter* by Scott Miller, *Baseball’s First Superstar* by Alan Gaff, and *Big Cat: The Life of Johnny Mize* by Jerry Grillo.
Haft’s biography not only immortalizes McCovey’s career but also serves as a reminder of the enduring love and respect he earned both on and off the field.
