The New York Mets prominently feature the number 24 on their jersey as a special tribute to the iconic Hall of Famer, Willie Mays. This honor recognizes his profound impact on baseball and his lasting connection to the Mets franchise.
Honoring a Legend
The addition of the No. 24 to the Mets' uniform is a direct nod to Willie Mays, who concluded his illustrious playing career with the team.
- Design and Placement: The number 24 is typically displayed as a circular patch on the left sleeve of the Mets' City Connect tops. This distinctive patch was introduced to visibly commemorate Mays.
- Mays' Tenure with the Mets: Willie Mays played for the Mets from 1972-1973, bringing his unparalleled talent and veteran presence to the club in his final seasons. His decision to finish his career in New York, where he had risen to stardom with the Giants, held significant meaning for baseball fans.
- Number Retirement: The Mets had already retired Willie Mays' No. 24 on Old-Timers' Day, solidifying his esteemed place in the team's history. The recent addition of the uniform patch further emphasizes his enduring legacy, especially following his passing.
- Recent Implementation: This patch was notably added for home games, such as against the Houston Astros, following Mays' passing on June 18. This ensured that his memory is visibly honored on the field by the players.
This gesture by the Mets ensures that Mays' extraordinary contributions and legendary status are always remembered and celebrated by players and fans alike. To learn more about the history of the New York Mets and their celebrated players, you can visit official league and team resources, such as the New York Mets Official Site or MLB.com.
