The term "legend" fits Willie McCovey as easily as the Giants cap that rests almost perpetually atop his regal head.
The extraordinary became commonplace for McCovey during his 22-year Major League career (1959-80). The Hall of Fame first baseman, who turns 80 on Wednesday, routinely walked with the greats.
When McCovey sought hitting advice, he called upon more than batting instructors. He approached fellow left-handed hitters Ted Williams and Stan Musial, who combined to win 13 batting titles.
When a youthful McCovey initially visited New York, the Giants didn't assign some front-office person to shepherd him.