Former Giants executive Peter Magowan passed away in his Pacific Heights home on Sunday. Magowan helped prevent the team from leaving San Francisco in 1992, and used private funding to build the club’s current home of Oracle Park. Magowan had been ill for several years, undergoing surgeries for prostate and liver cancer, and had recently gone into hospice care, according to the San Francisco Chronicle. He was 76.
After news of his passing broke, a handful of former Giants players made statements in remembrance of a man who changed the course of the franchise.
Willie Mays said Magowan was like his godfather.
Willie Mays on Peter Magowan: “He and Debby cared about me, and it was so easy to care about them in return. It’s hard to find the right words just now, but in losing Peter, I’ve lost a great, great friend. He was like my godfather. No one can replace him.”
— John Shea (@JohnSheaHey) January 28, 2019
Willie Mays on the passing of Peter Magowan: pic.twitter.com/NdPOpWprqJ
— David Lombardi (@LombardiHimself) January 28, 2019
Barry Bonds, who’s godfather is Mays, remembered the man who’s first order of business after buying the team in 1992 was to sign Bonds to a six-year, $43.75 million contract.
I’m extremely saddened by the passing of Peter Magowan. I will never forget our first call about the possibility of me coming home to play. He saved baseball for San Francisco and will be greatly missed. Sending my love and prayers to Debby and family. I love you Peter Magowan. pic.twitter.com/eMHZkmtrz2
— Barry L Bonds (@BarryBonds) January 28, 2019
"Just a first-class guy. I don't think many owners would invite players to their vacation home. He and Debby were tremendous to us. I loved Peter. I always thought he was a great guy." –J.T. Snow on Peter Magowan#SFGiants pic.twitter.com/hGTkUiRCwQ
— San Francisco Giants (@SFGiants) January 28, 2019
A host of other current and former Giants, and Brandon Crawford’s mother, also shared their respects.
RIP my friend. You did so much for this city and for the @sfgiants organization. You’ll be missed!!! #Repost @sfgiants
It is with deep sadness that we share the news that former… https://t.co/ynHctxrclG— Jeremy Affeldt (@JeremyAffeldt) January 28, 2019
Peter Magowan gave me the chance of a lifetime…to play for the team I grew up rooting for. A NorCal kid who watched games in the bleachers at the ‘Stick, got a chance to stand on the field and wear the #Giants uniform proudly, thanks to Peter. Eternally grateful. RIP my friend
— F.P. Santangelo (@FightinHydrant) January 27, 2019
On Feb. 9 he will be inducted onto the Giants Wall of Fame