How many Yankees numbers are retired? This is a question that often comes up among baseball fans, especially those who are die-hard followers of the New York Yankees. The Yankees, known for their rich history and numerous Hall of Famers, have retired a significant number of jersey numbers to honor the great players who have worn them. Let’s take a closer look at the retired numbers and the legendary players behind them.
The New York Yankees have retired a total of 23 numbers as of now. These numbers have been worn by some of the most iconic and influential players in the history of baseball. Here is a list of the retired numbers and the players they represent:
1.
2 – Lou Gehrig
2.
3 – Babe Ruth
3.
4 – Joe DiMaggio
4.
5 – Mickey Mantle
5.
6 – Yogi Berra
6.
8 – Reggie Jackson
7.
9 – Roger Maris
8.
10 – Phil Rizzuto
9.
11 – Joe Torre
10.
13 – Mariano Rivera
11.
15 – Elston Howard
12.
16 – Whitey Ford
13.
17 – Roger Clemens
14.
18 – Don Mattingly
15.
19 – Derek Jeter
16.
20 – Andy Pettitte
17.
23 – Alex Rodriguez
18.
27 – Bill Dickey
19.
32 – Bobby Brown
20.
42 – Jackie Robinson
21.
44 – Lou Gehrig
22.
45 – Elston Howard
23.
49 – Joe DiMaggio
Among these retired numbers, Lou Gehrig holds the record for the most retired numbers, with two of his numbers (2 and 42) honored. Gehrig, affectionately known as “The Iron Horse,” played in 2,130 consecutive games, a record that stood for 56 years. Babe Ruth, often referred to as the “Sultan of Swat,” is another player with two retired numbers (3 and 42), as he was the first player to hit 60 home runs in a single season and changed the game of baseball forever. Joe DiMaggio’s number 3 is retired in honor of his 56-game hitting streak, which remains one of the most legendary feats in baseball history.
Retiring a player’s number is a significant honor, as it signifies their lasting impact on the team and the sport. The New York Yankees have been fortunate to have many Hall of Famers and legendary players who have contributed to their success over the years. The retired numbers serve as a reminder of the rich history and tradition of the Yankees organization, and they continue to inspire current and future players to strive for greatness.
In conclusion, the New York Yankees have retired 23 numbers to honor the great players who have worn them. These numbers represent the iconic figures who have left an indelible mark on the team and the sport of baseball. As fans continue to discuss and debate the significance of these retired numbers, the legacy of these legendary players will never be forgotten.