The New York Yankees are wearing number 21 today to honor Roberto Clemente as part of Major League Baseball's celebration of Roberto Clemente Day on September 15, 2025. MLB recognizes Clemente's legacy as a Hall of Famer, 15-time All-Star, and humanitarian by having all players, managers, and coaches wear a "21" patch on their uniforms. Additionally, players of Puerto Rican heritage, past Roberto Clemente Award recipients, and the 2025 nominees for the award have the option to wear the number 21 on their uniforms during the games. Several Yankees stars, including Aaron Judge, Juan Soto, Giancarlo Stanton, Anthony Rizzo, Jose Trevino, and Marcus Stroman, have chosen to wear number 21 to pay tribute to Clemente's impact on baseball and the community.
Roberto Clemente was a legendary Puerto Rican player who played his entire career with the Pittsburgh Pirates. He is remembered not only for his achievements on the field, such as exactly 3,000 hits and 12 Gold Glove awards but also for his humanitarian efforts, which ultimately led to his death in a plane crash while delivering aid to earthquake victims in Nicaragua in 1972. MLB celebrates this day annually to continue recognizing his sportsmanship, community involvement, and positive contributions both on and off the field.
Therefore, the Yankees wearing number 21 today is a ceremonious tribute to honor Clemente’s enduring legacy in the sport and beyond.