Barry Bonds issues statement following godfather Willie Mays’ passing

Sad news broke on Tuesday night that Willie Mays, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in MLB history, passed away.

In addition to being a great baseball player, Mays was the godfather of another great player, Barry Bonds. Mays and Bonds’ father, Bobby Bonds, were teammates on the San Francisco Giants from 1968-1972.

Shortly after Mays’ death was reported, Bonds (Barry) released a statement on Instagram paying tribute to his godfather.

“I am beyond devastated and overcome with emotion. I have no words to describe what you mean to me- you helped shape me to be who I am today. Thank you for being my Godfather and always being there. Give my dad a hug for me. Rest in peace Willie, I love you forever. #SayHey ”

As a tribute to Mays, Bonds wore Mays’ number, 24, during his time playing with the Pittsburgh Pirates from 1986-1992. When he joined the Giants in 1993, Bonds planned on continuing to wear No. 24, with Mays giving his blessing and the team willing to unretire the number. Eventually, Bonds decided to leave No. 24 retired and instead wore No. 25, the number his father wore while playing with the Giants.

[Barry Bonds on Instagram]