Today marks the solemn one-year anniversary of the passing of baseball icon and San Francisco Giants legend Willie Mays, and the Giants organization, led by CEO Larry Baer, has made a heartfelt and meaningful move to honor the memory of one of the greatest players in baseball history. In a powerful tribute held at Oracle Park, the team unveiled a permanent statue of Mays—towering, bronze, and placed at the stadium’s main entrance—ensuring that the “Say Hey Kid” remains forever part of the team he helped define.

As fans gathered early under cloudy skies, the atmosphere was somber but deeply appreciative. Larry Baer took the podium alongside several Giants legends and members of Mays’ family to unveil the statue and announce that June 19 will now be officially recognized as Willie Mays Day within the organization. Baer, visibly emotional, said, “Willie Mays wasn’t just the greatest Giant—we believe he was the greatest to ever play the game. His heart, his hustle, and his smile shaped the soul of this franchise.”

In addition to the statue and the commemorative day, the Giants also announced that the center field wall at Oracle Park will now feature Mays’ signature etched in gold, symbolizing both his position and the golden standard he set for generations of players. Team management confirmed that no Giant will ever again wear the number 24, officially retiring it across all levels of the franchise, from major league to farm system.

The tribute became even more emotional when Mays’ family took the stage. His son, Michael Mays, addressed the crowd with heartfelt words that moved many to tears. “My father loved this city, this team, and these fans more than anything,” he said. “To see this outpouring of love one year after his passing tells us his spirit is still here—still alive in every pitch, every cheer, and every child picking up a glove.”

Several MLB legends, including Barry Bonds and Dusty Baker, were in attendance, each sharing personal stories about the impact Mays had on their lives and careers. Bonds, Mays’ godson, gave a moving tribute, calling him “my hero, my mentor, and the standard by which all greatness is measured.” His voice cracked with emotion as he touched the base of the statue, then looked skyward.

Social media erupted with tributes throughout the day. #WillieMaysDay trended across platforms as fans shared memories, highlights, and old photographs. Tributes poured in from around the baseball world, including from the New York Mets and MLB itself, proving that Willie Mays’ influence transcended team colors and generations.

Today’s tribute by the Giants was more than a ceremony—it was a heartfelt promise to keep Mays’ legacy alive. As fans walked past the new statue, many stopped in silence, tipped their caps, and whispered thank you. A legend may be gone, but his memory, and what he stood for, will live forever in the heart of baseball.