Willie Mays to miss MLB game honoring Negro Leagues at Rickwood Field
- Willie Mays will not be attending the MLB game at Rickwood Field honoring the Negro Leagues.
- The San Francisco Giants will face the St. Louis Cardinals in a tribute game at the historic baseball field.
- Fans will miss the opportunity to see the Hall of Famer in person during the special event.
Watkins pitched the idea of hosting an MLB game at Rickwood Field, the historic ballpark in Birmingham, Alabama where Willie Mays began his career. The oldest professional ballpark in the U.S., Rickwood Field was home to Mays and the Birmingham Black Barons of the Negro Leagues. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed the significance of the event, honoring Mays' legacy. Mays, who started playing for the Black Barons at 17, led them to the Negro League World Series in 1948. The game between the St. Louis Cardinals and San Francisco Giants at Rickwood Field pays tribute to Mays and the Negro Leagues. Despite Mays not being able to attend, he shared his gratitude for the recognition and expressed his connection to Rickwood Field and the Black Barons. The event celebrates Mays' remarkable career and contributions to baseball history.