Fans of baseball legend Willie Mays gathered outside Oracle Park to honor the Hall of Famer following news of his passing at the age of 90. The statue of Mays outside the park quickly became a place for fans to gather, laying down flowers and paying tribute to the Giants legend.
Mays’ impact on the game of baseball was profound, having first played in the Negro American League before signing with the New York Giants at a young age. Fans like James Fitzgerald shared memories of encountering Mays in person, recalling an elevator ride with the baseball icon that left him in awe.
Another fan, Nathan Naze, emphasized the importance of passing on Mays’ legacy to future generations, bringing his 3-year-old son Teddy to pay respects at the statue. Naze hopes to instill in his son a love for baseball and an appreciation for the cultural significance of players like Mays.
The outpouring of love and remembrance for Mays highlights the lasting impact he has had on the sport and the lives of fans. As Fitzgerald noted, Mays’ legacy is sure to endure for generations to come, with fans continuing to honor and remember the baseball legend. The Giants have opened Oracle Park for fans to pay their respects and participate in a memorial game honoring Mays’ time in the Negro Leagues.
The tributes and gatherings outside Oracle Park serve as a testament to Mays’ enduring legacy and the profound impact he had on the world of baseball. Fans from all walks of life have come together to honor and remember a true giant of the sport, ensuring that Willie Mays’ memory will live on for years to come.
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