WASHINGTON — On the heels of his recognition by Major League Baseball at Birmingham’s Rickwood Field in June, the late Willie Mays was honored Thursday by the U.S. Senate in a resolution introduced by Sens. Katie Britt and Tommy Tuberville.
Mays died June 18 at the age of 93, just two days before Major League Baseball hosted its first ever game at Rickwood Field where Mays made his professional baseball debut 76 years prior.
“Willie Mays will go down in history as one of the greatest of all time,” said Tuberville (R-Auburn). “He truly embodied the American dream and his legacy will last far beyond his incredible, inspiring lifetime. I am honored to celebrate Mays’ life and legacy both on and off the field — a true Alabama hero.”
The Alabama native and Baseball Hall of Famer is the only player in MLB history with more than 300 home runs, 300 stolen bases, 3,000 career hits, and a career batting average greater than .300.
Britt (R-Montgomery) called Mays a “true giant” and the “greatest of all time.”
“When he was on the field, he showcased more than incredible talent and skill—he brought a joyful exuberance to the game,” said Britt. “Millions of Americans grew up looking up to this legendary Alabama native, dreaming of one day being like him.”
“In reality, there will only ever be one Willie Mays. It is only fitting that the U.S. Senate honors his enduring legacy and legendary contributions to America’s Pastime.”
The resolution reads:
“Willie Mays personified the American Dream by relying on his relentless work ethic and determination to become an immortal giant of our national pastime, all while inspiring millions of people across the United States: Now, therefore, be it resolved, that the Senate: honors the timeless values of hard work and sacrifice that Willie Mays embodied; recognizes the inspiration that Willie Mays was and continues to be for generations of people in the United States; and celebrates the historic feats that Willie Mays achieved while playing baseball, the game that he loved.”
Mays was elected into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1979 on the first ballot. He was selected 24 times for the All-Star Game. He won two National League Most Valuable Player Awards, 12 Gold Goves, and four National League home run titles.
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