The Story of Willie Mays Aikens and Mandatory Minimums

A power hitter and superstar for the Kansas City Royals in the early 1980’s, Aiken’s career was derailed by a debilitating addiction to drugs. Arrested at a time when the U.S. had instituted harsh mandatory minimum sentences as a weapon in the on-going war on drugs, a policy that inequitably targeted people of color, Willie found himself sentenced, on a non-violent drug conviction, to twenty years in federal prison.

Sometimes it Rains uses Willie’s personal journey to explore the history of America’s war on drugs and mass incarceration, and the impact those policies have had on communities of color.

At its heart, this story is about one man’s journey from baseball stardom, to rock bottom, and finally… redemption.

You can listen to our podcast season below or on Spotify, Anchor, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Pocket Casts, and Radio Public.

And then get more of Willie’s story by purchasing the book Safe At Home by Gregory Jordan.

1.jpg

Episode 1: Patience and Progress

An incredible talent for hitting a baseball lands Willie a scholarship to South Carolina State and the opportunity to pull himself and his family out of poverty. As he works his way up the ranks from the minors to major league, Willie’s career path eventually leads him to Kansas City.

Also, Negro Leagues Baseball Museum president Bob Kendrick gives a history of baseball in KC.

1.5.png

Episode 1.5: Learn More About the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum

A quick thanks to Bob Kendrick of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum and information on how you can help support the museum.

2.png

Episode 2: World Series and White Powder

Willie finds his groove and the national spotlight as he helps lead the Kansas City Royals to an AL Championship and their first trip to the World Series. But he also finds a growing need for his new favorite pastime - cocaine.

Also, a history of cocaine use in America and a look at how race has played a central role in U.S. drug policy.

3c.png

Episode 3: Don’t Snort the Foul Line

As Willie’s cocaine use becomes increasingly routine, the end of every game is the beginning of the party, often with a handful of teammates at his friend and supplier Mark’s house. But the party turns sober quickly when the federal government’s burgeoning war on drugs sets its sights directly on Major League Baseball.

Also, a look at how the Reagan administration transformed U.S. policy in regards to drugs and the effect those policies began to have on incarceration levels in America.

4.png

Episode 4: Sólo Quería Jugar

 

Determined to find his way back to the majors, Willie heads south to play ball in Mexico. He tears it up, setting records throughout the league. But at the same time, he finds his addiction growing more serious and culminating with his introduction to a new form of smokable cocaine.... called crack.

Also, a history of Liga Mexicana de Béisbol, and a look at the crack epidemic, facts and misconceptions surrounding the drug and the ways in which the media helped shape America’s perception of crack cocaine.

 

5.png

Episode 5: United States of America vs. Willie Mays Aikens

 

Everything in Willie’s life comes crashing down the day a woman stops and asks for directions. She says her name is Karen. Willie thinks she might be looking for a boyfriend.

She’s not. And her name isn’t Karen.

Also, criminal defense attorney Doug Passon explains sentencing entrapment as it relates to mandatory minimums.

6.png

Episode 6: A Matter of Black and White

 

As Willie’s trial quickly concludes, it becomes increasingly evident that mandatory minimums will play a critical role in determining his fate. And that the sentencing disparity between crack and powder cocaine is about to send him to prison.... for a very long time.

Also, a look at the history of mandatory minimums and issues of racial bias in the criminal justice system.

7c.png

Episode 7: A Second Chance

 

While serving a lengthy sentence, first in Leavenworth and later in Atlanta, Willie finds redemption and a shot at a new life. Once released, he embraces his new role as a husband and father, and even eventually finds his way back to the Kansas City Royals.

Also, an examination of where we are today with mandatory minimums and the war on drugs, particularly how they’ve impacted the Black community. And finally, some thoughts on where we might go from here.