Black History

Gov. Newsom, Other California Leaders, Pay Tribute to Baseball Great Willie Mays

Last week, Gov. Gavin Newsom, several California government officials, private sector leaders and Americans from all walks of life paid tribute to former San Francisco Giant, Major League Baseball (MLB) great, and Negro Leagues icon Willie Mays, who passed away at 93 on June 18. Nicknamed “The Say Hey Kid,” Mays made history as one of the greatest baseball players in MLB. A powerful hitter and center fielder, his sportsmanship and athleticism earned him a spot in the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1979.

Published

12 months ago

July 19, 2024

Oakland Post

Willie Mays made the MLB All-Star team 24 times. Photo courtesy of California Museum.

By California Black Media

Nicknamed “The Say Hey Kid,” Mays made history as one of the greatest baseball players in MLB. A powerful hitter and center fielder, his sportsmanship and athleticism earned him a spot in the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1979.

Mays previously played in the Negro American League for the Birmingham Black Barons. He was a pioneer and legend in baseball as one of 10 Black players in the 1950s that secured a contract with a major league team.

Newsom acknowledged Mays as a baseball icon and role model who broke barriers, set world records, and inspired future generations of athletes.

“I am deeply saddened by the loss of my friend, Willie Mays,” said the Governor.

“His impact extends far beyond baseball. He became an integral part of San Francisco’s cultural fabric and a cherished member of our community. His legacy will forever be intertwined with the legacy of the city he loved,” he said.

Throughout his career, Mays was renowned for ‘The Catch’ during the 1954 World Series after catching a fly ball over his shoulder with his back to the diamond. This play was marked as one of the greatest catches in the history of baseball.

San Francisco Giants Chair Greg Johnson called Mays a hero and praised the 24-time All-Star athlete for his contributions to the game of baseball and the fabric of America.

“Today we have lost a true legend,” said Johnson. “In the pantheon of baseball greats, Willie Mays’ combination of tremendous talent, keen intellect, showmanship, and boundless joy set him apart.”

San Francisco Mayor London Breed called Mays “the greatest player of all time.

“To a native San Franciscan, some things just go without question: it’s foggy in the summer, cable cars go halfway to the stars, and Willie Mays is the best there ever was,” wrote Breed in a statement. “It was an unbelievable opportunity of a lifetime to meet someone like Willie Mays. I remember hearing about the struggles that he endured because he was Black, and what he overcame to become an icon on the field.”

Sen. Steve Cortese (D-San Jose) said Mays contributions to baseball and the Bay Area are “immeasurable.”

Watching Willie Mays play was a privilege I will never forget. As great as he was at the sport, he was an even better man. His work through the Say Hey Foundation stands as just one example of how he made our community stronger,” said Cortese.

California Assembly Speaker Robert A. Rivas (D-Hollister) also saluted Mays.

“The greatest. Rest in Peace, Willie Mays,” Rivas posted on the social media platform.