Keith Hernandez of the Mets declared his sadness after paying tribute to Willie Mays.

Baseball icon Willie Mays, the “Say Hey Kid,” died on Tuesday, the San Francisco Giants announced. He was 93.

The 24-time MLB All-Star spent the vast majority of his storied career with the Giants organization. The team released a statement mourning the life of the legendary player.

“It is with great sadness that we announce that San Francisco Giants Legend and Hall of Famer Willie Mays passed away peacefully this afternoon at the age of 93,” the Giants said in a statement.

Keith Hernandez, the renowned first baseman of the New York Mets, expressed profound sadness following his heartfelt tribute to baseball legend Willie Mays. As Hernandez reflected on Mays’ towering influence on the game, he couldn’t help but recall the unforgettable moments they shared on and off the field. His voice trembled with emotion as he recounted Mays’ unparalleled athleticism and grace, which inspired generations of players and fans alike.

Hernandez vividly remembered the first time he met Mays, a moment etched in his memory forever. He described Mays as not just a baseball icon but a mentor who imparted invaluable wisdom about the game and life itself. Through anecdotes and shared experiences, Hernandez painted a vivid picture of Mays’ enduring legacy and the impact he had on everyone fortunate enough to cross paths with him.

The tribute was a poignant reminder of Mays’ indelible mark on baseball history and the deep admiration he commanded from peers like Hernandez. As he spoke, Hernandez’s voice cracked with emotion, underscoring the profound loss felt throughout the baseball community. Yet, amid the sorrow, there was also a celebration of Mays’ extraordinary life and career, a testament to his enduring spirit and lasting influence on the sport he loved.

In conclusion, Keith Hernandez’s sadness following the tribute to Willie Mays was a poignant reminder of the profound impact Mays had on him personally and the entire baseball world. It was a tribute filled with reverence, admiration, and a deep sense of loss for a true legend of the game.