Mets retire Willie Mays' number 24 during Old Timers Day

FLUSHING, Queens (WABC) -- Mets Old Timers Day returned for the first time since 1994, and the afternoon began with a surprise.

Broadcaster Howie Rose announced that the Mets were retiring Mays' number 24.

While it was an incredible moment -- the story behind it is even better. Mays spent only his final two seasons with the Mets in 1972 and 1973. It was then that the late owner, Joan Payson promised him that she would retire his number when he retired.

Unfortunately, Payson died two years later, and that is why, after 50 years, new team owner Steve Cohen made good on her promise.

Mays' son, Michael was on hand for the ceremony.

Mays was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1979. He joins six other Mets to have their number retired.

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