Fans of the San Francisco Giants gathered at Oracle Park to pay their respects to baseball legend Willie Mays, who passed away at the age of 93. The fans were able to enter the stadium in honor of Mays, known as the “say hello boy,” and watch a classic matchup between the Giants and the Cardinals.
Emotions were mixed, with some fans smiling and others shedding tears as they remembered Mays and the impact he had on their lives. People left flowers, candles, and messages, expressing that Mays will always hold a special place in their hearts. One fan, Anderson Bailey, shared how Mays influenced his decision to play center field and how he paved the way for younger generations in the black community.
The Giants unveiled a large statue of Mays’s number, “24,” in the center field, and some fans shared their desire to see the field named after Mays. Fans recounted personal memories of Mays, from getting his autograph as a teenager to being inspired by his generosity and contributions to community centers.
The event at Oracle Park was described as bittersweet, reflecting on Mays’s impact on and off the field. Fans at the park also tuned in to a telecast of the Mays tribute in Alabama and watched the Giants-Cardinals game at Rickwood Field, where Mays began his baseball career. The tribute was displayed on a large scoreboard with a “24” clock, symbolizing Mays’s timeless talent.
Despite the sadness of Mays’s passing, fans found comfort in sharing their personal stories and memories of the baseball icon at Oracle Park. Giants officials announced that a public celebration of Mays’s life would be held at a later date.
Amber Lee, a reporter for KTVU, covered the tribute event at Oracle Park. Fans can reach her via email or social media to share their own memories and stories of Willie Mays.
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https://www.ktvu.com/news/oracle-park-opens-up-fans-pay-tribute-baseball-great-willie-mays.amp
