The resolution recognizes May 6th as the birthday of William "Willie" Howard Mays, Jr., a legendary figure in baseball born in Alabama in 1931. It highlights his early life, athletic prowess, and significant contributions to the sport, including his professional debut at age 16 in the Negro American League and his subsequent success with the New York Giants. Mays's career is marked by numerous accolades, including 24 All-Star selections, two MVP awards, and a remarkable lifetime batting average of .302, along with 660 home runs and 3,293 hits. His iconic moment, "The Catch," during the 1954 World Series, is celebrated as a defining highlight of his career.
The resolution also honors Mays's legacy, which includes his induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1979 and the retirement of his jersey number by the San Francisco Giants and New York Mets. It acknowledges his receipt of the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2015 and his passing on June 18, 2024. The resolution concludes by celebrating Mays's hard work, sacrifice, and the inspiration he provided to future generations, marking what would have been his 94th birthday.