Sports world pays tribute to Hall of Famer Willie Mays

The San Francisco Giants announced that Willie Mays, the greatest center fielder of all time, died Tuesday afternoon at the age of 93.

"Today we have lost a true legend," Giants chairman Greg Johnson said in a statement. "In the pantheon of baseball greats, Willie Mays' combination of tremendous talent, keen intellect, showmanship, and boundless joy set him apart. A 24-time All-Star, the Say Hey Kid is the ultimate Forever Giant.

"He had a profound influence not only on the game of baseball, but on the fabric of America. He was an inspiration and a hero who will be forever remembered and deeply missed."

Mays' death comes just two days before the Giants are scheduled to play against the St. Louis Cardinals at Rickwood Field in Birmingham, Alabama, in a game to honor him and the Negro Leagues.

"Thursday's game at historic Rickwood Field was designed to be a celebration of Willie Mays and his peers," MLB commissioner Rob Manfred said in a statement. "With sadness in our hearts, it will now also serve as a national remembrance of an American who will forever remain on the short list of the most impactful individuals our great game has ever known."

The Giants and Chicago Cubs honored Mays with a moment of silence before their game.

Mays' godson and fellow Giants icon, Barry Bonds, was among the notable figures in the MLB community who paid tribute to Mays on social media.