Willie Mays becomes the first player to win the Most Valuable Player Award in his first full year in the majors

On December 16, 1954 — Willie Mays becomes the first player to win the Most Valuable Player Award in his first full year in the majors when he easily outdistances Reds first baseman Ted Kluszewski for the honor. The 23 year-old Giants center fielder made his big league debut at the end of May in 1951 but missed the last two seasons due to his military service in the U.S. Army.

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San Francisco Giants outfielder Willie Mays, who hit .312 with 52 home runs and 112 RBI, is named National League MVP. Mays receives 224 votes to 177 for Sandy Koufax, who, pitching for the Dodgers, had a 2.04 ERA, won 26 games, allowed just 5.79 hits per nine innings, and struck out 382 batters.

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