Roberto Clemente's Jersey Number
Roberto Clemente wore number 21 throughout his entire Major League Baseball career with the Pittsburgh Pirates. He played from 1955 until his death in 1972, spending all 18 seasons with Pittsburgh. The number became synonymous with his defensive excellence, batting skill, and humanitarian work.
Retirement and League-Wide Honor
MLB retired number 21 league-wide on April 15, 1973, making Clemente the first player honored with a permanent, across-the-league retirement. The decision followed his tragic death in a plane crash while delivering earthquake relief supplies to Nicaragua. The move recognized both his on-field achievements and his off-field impact.
Legacy and Continued Recognition
Number 21 remains one of the most iconic retired numbers in sports history. Roberto Clemente was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1973, and his legacy is widely documented by the Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. His career stats, including 3,000 hits and 12 Gold Glove Awards, are preserved on the official MLB website.
