What Yankees Retired Numbers Mean and Why They Matter
The Yankees retired numbers you see above Monument Park at Yankee Stadium represent players whose careers fundamentally shaped the franchise and, in many cases, the game of baseball itself. When a number is retired, the team no longer issues it for active play, signaling that the person’s impact and legacy are permanently honored. This guide explains each retired number, the story behind the selection, and how the Yankees reserve this recognition for singular achievement and enduring influence.
Full List of Yankees Retired Numbers
As of today, the Yankees have retired 22 numbers, the most of any team in professional sports. Each number is tied to a specific player approved by the team, and the decisions are based on long-term contributions to the organization rather than short-term performance. The table below shows the retired numbers, the players honored, and the years they were retired.
| No. | Player | Position(s) | Retired | Ref |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Billy Martin | 2B | 1986 | Yankees |
| 2 | Derek Jeter | SS | 2017 | Yankees |
| 3 | Alex Rodriguez | SS / 3B | 2017 | Yankees |
| 4 | George McQuinn | 1B | 1981 | Yankees |
| 5 | Joe DiMaggio | CF | 1952 | Yankees |
| 6 | C | 2014 | Yankees | |
| 7 | Mickey Mantle | CF | 1969 | Yankees |
| 8 | Yogi Berra | C | 1972 | Yankees |
| 9 | Roger Maris | RF | 1984 | Yankees |
| 10 | Phil Rizzuto | SS | 1985 | Yankees |
| 15 | Whitey Ford | P | 1974 | Yankees |
| 16 | Paul O’Neill | RF | 2022 | Yankees |
| 20 | Bill Dickey | C | 1972 | Yankees |
| 23 | Michael Phelps | P | Yankees | |
| 32 | Mariano Rivera | P | 2013 | Yankees |
| 37 | Lou Gehrig | 1B | 1939 | Yankees |
| 42 | Jackie Robinson | 2B | 1997Leaguewide | MLB |
| Reggie Jackson | OF | 1993 | Yankees | |
| 46 | Don Mattingly | 1B | 2014 | Yankees |
| 51 | Yogi Berra | C | 1972 | Yankees |
| 55 | Enos Slaughter | OF | 1996 | Yankees |
| 60 | Johnny BenchPlayer | C | 2024 | Yankees |
Notes on selection and recent retirements
- The Yankees typically retire numbers after a waiting period and in consultation with the player and family, allowing the person’s legacy to be assessed over time.
- Paul O’Neill’s 16 was retired in 2022, and Johnny Bench’s 60 was retired in 2024, showing the ongoing nature of this process.
- Jackie Robinson’s 42 is retired leaguewide across all MLB teams, a unique honor that extends beyond the Yankees alone.
Records and Honors Connected to Retired Numbers
Several retired numbers are linked to specific records or honors that remain benchmarks in Yankees history. For example, the retired numbers include leaders in home runs, RBIs, batting titles, and iconic pitching seasons. Below is a concise summary of key records associated with the honored players.
| No. | Record or Notable Accomplishment | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | Derek Jeter: All-time postseason hits leader | MLB.com |
| 3 | Alex Rodriguez: Most home runs by a shortstop | MLB Record |
| 5 | Joe DiMaggio: 56-game hitting streak | MLB Record |
| 7 | Mickey Mantle: 54 HR season in 1956 | Yankees Records |
| 8 | Yogi Berra: 10 World Series titles as a player | Yankees History |
| 23 | Mariano Rivera: Saves leader in MLB history | MLB Record |
| 37 | Lou Gehrig: Hit in 2,130 consecutive games | MLB Record |
| 42 | Jackie Robinson: MLB-wide retired number; Rookie of the Year Award | MLB Commemoration |
| 44 | Reggie Jackson: 1977 World Series heroics; 250+ home runs with NY | Yankees Archives |
| 32 | Mariano Rivera: Sub-2.00 ERA career as closer | MLB Stats |
Criteria the Yankees Use to Retire a Number
The Yankees do not retire numbers lightly. When evaluating whether to retire a number, officials consider career milestones, sustained excellence with the team, cultural impact, and how the player represents Yankees values. The process may involve input from former players, historians, and front office leadership. In most cases, the number is retired only after the player’s tenure with the team has ended and sufficient time has passed to assess long-term influence. This careful approach ensures that each retired number remains a meaningful and durable symbol of excellence.
Yankees Retired Numbers vs. Honored Numbers: What’s the Difference?
It’s important to distinguish between Yankees retired numbers and honored numbers. A retired number is permanently out of circulation for active players and is reserved for the honoree. An honored number may be displayed in Monument Park or the Yankees Museum but can still be worn by current or future players, depending on the team’s discretion. Both forms of recognition celebrate significant contributions, but only retired numbers remove the jersey from active use.
Monument Park and Other Forms of Recognition
In addition to retired numbers, the Yankees honor many players with plaques in Monument Park, including those whose numbers were not retired and executives who shaped the franchise. These displays provide a broader look at Yankees history and help contextualize how each honoree contributed to the team’s success. Retired numbers remain among the highest forms of recognition, representing a permanent place in the club’s identity.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many Yankees numbers are retired? As of today, the Yankees have retired 22 numbers, the most of any professional sports team.
- Can a retired Yankees number ever be issued again? Generally, no. A retired number remains reserved for the honored player and is not reissued, though the team may make exceptions in rare circumstances after extensive review.
- What is the difference between retired and honored numbers? Retired numbers are permanently taken out of circulation, while honored numbers may still be worn by players but are displayed in team halls or monuments.
- Does the league retire Jackie Robinson’s number league-wide? Yes, MLB retired Jackie Robinson’s No. 42 across all teams in 1997, a unique honor that applies everywhere.
- Who decides which numbers get retired? The Yankees’ front office, in consultation with baseball historians, former players, and in many cases the players’ families, determines number retirements.
- Are all Yankees Hall of Famers recognized with a retired number? Not necessarily. Hall of Fame induction is a separate honor; number retirement is reserved for players with a distinguished Yankees tenure and exceptional impact.
The Enduring Legacy of Retired Numbers
For Yankees fans, retired numbers are more than static markers above the dugout; they are a living part of team history that connects generations. Each jersey reflects decades of performance, leadership, and moments that defined eras. As the franchise continues to evaluate new candidates, the tradition of retiring numbers remains a powerful way to preserve the identity of one of baseball’s most storied organizations.