How many Yankee numbers have been retired? This is a question that many baseball fans often ponder, especially those who are die-hard followers of the New York Yankees. The Yankees, known for their rich history and storied tradition, have retired a significant number of jersey numbers over the years, each representing a legendary player who left an indelible mark on the franchise.
The New York Yankees have a long-standing tradition of retiring jersey numbers to honor their most distinguished players. These numbers are never reissued, ensuring that they remain exclusive to the players who have worn them. As of now, a total of 19 Yankee numbers have been retired, each symbolizing the incredible talent and contributions of the players who donned them.
The first number to be retired by the Yankees was 2, worn by Lou Gehrig, who played for the team from 1923 to 1939. Gehrig, affectionately known as “The Iron Horse,” was a three-time American League MVP and a seven-time World Series champion. His number was retired in 1939, just a year after he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a disease that eventually took his life.
Another iconic number retired by the Yankees is 3, worn by Babe Ruth, the Sultan of Swat. Ruth played for the Yankees from 1920 to 1934 and is considered one of the greatest baseball players of all time. His number was retired in 1948, two years after his death.
Several other legendary Yankees have had their numbers retired, including 4, worn by Joe DiMaggio, who had an incredible 56-game hitting streak in 1941; 15, worn by Mickey Mantle, another Hall of Famer who was known for his power and speed; and 42, worn by Mariano Rivera, the greatest closer in baseball history.
The Yankees have also retired numbers for their managers, including 8 for Joe Torre, who led the team to four World Series titles from 1996 to 2000, and 4 for Billy Martin, who managed the Yankees to seven World Series titles, more than any other manager.
In addition to these iconic numbers, the Yankees have retired 23 for Alex Rodriguez, who spent his entire career with the team and was a three-time American League MVP; 27 for Derek Jeter, the team’s captain and the longest-tenured Yankee in history; and 31 for Roger Clemens, who won seven Cy Young Awards during his career with the Yankees.
The retirement of these numbers serves as a testament to the Yankees’ commitment to honoring their storied past and the incredible players who have graced the hallowed grounds of Yankee Stadium. As the franchise continues to evolve, the number of retired Yankee numbers is likely to grow, ensuring that the legacy of these great players will never be forgotten.
