Retired Numbers- A Tribute to the Legends Who Shaped the Yankees’ Legacy

What numbers are retired by the Yankees? The New York Yankees, one of the most storied franchises in Major League Baseball, have a rich history of retired numbers that honor some of the greatest players to ever don the pinstripes. These retired numbers serve as a testament to the team’s legacy and the exceptional careers of the players who have left an indelible mark on the sport.

The Yankees have retired a total of 19 numbers since the franchise’s inception in 1901. These numbers are worn on the backs of the players’ jerseys and serve as a constant reminder of the team’s storied past. The first number to be retired was 2, worn by Lou Gehrig, who played for the Yankees from 1923 to 1939. Gehrig, known as “The Iron Horse,” played in 2,130 consecutive games and is considered one of the greatest first basemen in baseball history.

Another iconic number retired by the Yankees is 3, worn by Babe Ruth, who played for the Yankees from 1920 to 1934. Ruth, the all-time home run king, was a key player in the Yankees’ rise to dominance in the early 20th century. His number is a symbol of the team’s success during the “Murderers’ Row” era of the 1920s.

Number 4, worn by Joe DiMaggio, is another retired number that stands out in Yankees lore. DiMaggio’s 56-game hitting streak in 1941 is one of the most remarkable achievements in baseball history. His number is a testament to his extraordinary talent and the impact he had on the game.

Other retired numbers include 5, worn by Whitey Ford, the Yankees’ Hall of Fame pitcher who won five World Series titles; 7, worn by Mickey Mantle, another Hall of Famer and one of the greatest center fielders of all time; and 9, worn by Yogi Berra, another Hall of Famer and one of the greatest catchers in baseball history.

Number 15, worn by Mariano Rivera, the all-time saves leader and another Hall of Famer, was retired in 2013. Rivera’s career with the Yankees was marked by his unparalleled pitching ability and his role as the team’s closer for 19 years. His number is a testament to his dominance on the mound and his contributions to the Yankees’ success.

Additionally, the Yankees have retired numbers for managers and executives who have played significant roles in the team’s history. Numbers 8 and 42, worn by Hall of Fame manager Joe Torre and the late Yankee Stadium, respectively, are also retired.

These retired numbers are a significant part of the Yankees’ identity and their rich history. They serve as a reminder of the team’s storied past and the exceptional players and managers who have contributed to the franchise’s legacy. As the Yankees continue to compete for championships, these retired numbers will always be a part of the team’s fabric and a source of pride for fans and players alike.