Don Mueller, the New York Giants outfielder who was known as Mandrake the Magician for his ability to slap a hit through an infield hole and who did just that to help set up Bobby Thomson’s 1951 pennant-winning homer against the Brooklyn Dodgers, died Wednesday in Chesterfield, Mo. He was 84.

His death was announced by his family.

Mueller was one of the finest singles hitters of his era, and he seldom struck out. His wizardry at the plate was never more in demand than on the afternoon of Oct. 3, 1951.

The Giants had come from far back to tie the Dodgers for first place in the National League. But in the finale of a three-game playoff, they were losing, 4-1, at the Polo Grounds going into the bottom of the ninth inning.

Alvin Dark led off by singling against Don Newcombe. When the left-handed-batting Mueller came to the plate, Gil Hodges, the Dodgers’ first baseman, stood close to the bag. Mueller took notice.