Willie Mays Day 2024 (US): On February 4, we commemorate Willie Mays Day, the day that inspired the fabled “Say Hey Kid.” Undoubtedly, enthusiasts of the legendary baseball player Willie Mays will discern the importance of the date of February 4, 2024, or 2/4/24. Mays established the legendary number 24 jersey as a fan favorite during his inaugural season with the New York Giants in 1951, subsequently elevating it to legendary status for the next two decades.
Adam Swig, an acquaintance of Mays and the founder and executive director of the California nonprofit Value Culture, was astounded by the significance of the date. Plans were initiated to designate 2/4/24 as Willie Mays Day in conjunction with the San Francisco Giants, the mayor’s office, and numerous other entities. In remembrance of Mays, who is considered to be one of the finest players in the history of Major League Baseball, the city will host festivities.
Willie Mays Day History
An additional reason has materialized to commemorate the life and noteworthy accomplishments of former Major League Baseball captain and center fielder Willie Mays, even though such recognition is not required. A mathematical miracle will ensure that February 4, 2024, or 2/4/24, is observed as the inaugural Willie Mays Day.
Mays commenced his professional vocation in 1948 by signing with the Birmingham Black Barons of the Negro American League. Nevertheless, he achieved notable accomplishments during his tenure with the New York Giants, which underwent a rebranding in 1957 to become the San Francisco Giants. During his illustrious career, he amassed a multitude of honors and was renowned for his extraordinary strength and agility. Twenty times, he was selected for the All-Star Game. In 1979, he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. Additionally, he was named the National League MVP twice, hit 660 home runs, and assisted the New York Giants in winning the 1954 World Series. His accomplishments included being named the Rookie of the Year twice and being named the MVP of the league.
The number 24 that Mays donned for 22 years is the most cherished in the history of the San Francisco Giants franchise. Adam Swig, a friend of Willie Mays, recognized the significance of the date and seized the opportunity to commemorate the American sporting hero by establishing Willie Mays Day. Swig, the executive director and founder of the California-based nonprofit Value Culture, initiated communication with Larry Baer, the CEO of the San Francisco Giants. Baer then relayed Swig’s message to London Breed, the mayor of San Francisco. Through their collective effort, the city of San Francisco officially designated February 4 as Willie Mays Day. During the occasion, City Hall will be illuminated in the colors of the Giants, which are orange and black. Additionally, Oracle Park’s scoreboard and 24 Willie Mays Plaza will be embellished correspondingly to commemorate the occasion.
In addition, numerous events will be coordinated with this day, such as the unveiling of the Willie Mays Scholars program in observance of Black History Month.
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FAQs for Willie Mays Day
For what was Willie Mays best recognized?
With an over-the-shoulder catch in Game 1 of the 1954 World Series, he executed one of the most remarkable defensive plays in the history of Major League Baseball. It was labeled “The Catch,” and to this day, he is still remembered for it.
Why is the title of Willie Mays “Say Hey Kid”?
Sportswriter Barney Kremenko of the “New York Journal” bestowed upon him the moniker “Say Hey Kid” about Mays’ hurried “Say who,” “Say what,” “Say where,” and “Say hey” upon receiving $6,000 to sign with the New York Giants.
With whom did Willie Mays conclude his professional career?
His career with the New York Mets came to an end in 1972, when he was transferred to them.
How to Celebrate the Day of Willie Mays
Appears in a 24 jersey.
It is more appropriate to honor Willie Mays in any way possible than to wear the jersey number that made him so well-known, according to Mays’ friend Adam Swig.
Attend the celebrations in San Francisco.
Attempt to make it to the city in time for the festivities. It is an exceptional opportunity to witness a momentous occasion in honor of a sporting icon.
Organize a viewing celebration
Congregate family, friends, and fellow baseball aficionados for a viewing celebration that will feature highlight reels of Mays’ career or classic games. A jubilant ambiance can be established through the use of refreshments, memorabilia, and decorations inspired by baseball.
Five intriguing facts concerning Willie Mays
An outstanding record
Mays held the number 24 position in the major leagues for a record-setting 22 years, longer than any other player.
His father was a baseball player.
In Birmingham, Alabama, Willie Mays Sr. participated in an industrial baseball team league.
His mother was not his mother.
Following the birth of Willie, Annie Satterwhite, his mother, divorced him; his father and two aunts raised the child.
The initial black commander
He became the first African-American major league captain in 1964.
He was honored with the highest civilian honor.
In recognition of his contributions to the realm of sports, President Barack Obama awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2015.
WILLIE MAYS DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | February 4 | Sunday |
| 2025 | February 4 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | February 4 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | February 4 | Thursday |
| 2028 | February 4 | Friday |
