The Seattle Mariners revealed on Monday that Hall of Famer Randy Johnson’s No. 51 jersey will be officially retired in a pregame ceremony during the upcoming season. Johnson made history by pitching the Mariners’ first no-hitter on June 2, 1990, exactly 35 years ago this Monday, and he became the franchise’s inaugural Cy Young Award winner in 1995. The specific date for the jersey retirement will be announced once the 2026 MLB schedule is finalized.
During his decade with the Mariners, Johnson compiled a 130-74 record with a 3.42 ERA. Speaking via Zoom, Johnson expressed gratitude for the recognition of his contributions over those ten years, acknowledging that it had been some time since he played for Seattle. While he found further acclaim with the Arizona Diamondbacks—winning a fourth straight Cy Young Award in 2001 and a World Series title—Johnson retains fond memories of his Seattle days.
He especially cherishes the 1995 season, a pivotal year when King County voters initially rejected a tax subsidy for a new stadium, casting uncertainty over the Mariners’ future. Despite that, the team excelled at the Kingdome and advanced to the American League Championship Series, eventually spurring the King County Council to approve funding for a new stadium. Johnson reflected with appreciation on playing a key role during that chaotic yet historic period.
In 1995, Johnson dominated with an 18-2 record and a 2.48 ERA, earning his first Cy Young Award. However, he was traded to the Houston Astros partway through the 1998 season. Johnson then signed with the Diamondbacks in 1999, where he enjoyed some of his most successful years, contributing to his Hall of Fame induction wearing an Arizona cap. Still, Johnson balances pride in his achievements with both teams, humorously wishing his Hall of Fame plaque could represent both Seattle and Arizona.
Although Johnson’s jersey retirement will be separate from that of Ichiro Suzuki—who also wore No. 51 in Seattle and whose number is set to be retired on August 9—Johnson was mindful not to overshadow Ichiro’s upcoming Hall of Fame induction on July 27. Johnson’s No. 51 will become the fifth number retired by the Mariners, joining Ken Griffey Jr.’s No. 24, Edgar Martinez’s No. 11, Ichiro’s No. 51, and the universally retired Jackie Robinson’s No. 42 across all MLB teams.
Johnson acknowledged Ichiro’s accomplishments with great respect, expressing happiness that his own honor will not interfere with Ichiro’s special day. The Associated Press reported this story.
—
Fan Take: Retiring Randy Johnson’s jersey is a powerful homage to a player who not only shaped Mariners’ history but also left an indelible mark on baseball with his dominance and charisma. This moment celebrates the legacy of a true legend and reminds fans of the rich, intertwined narratives that make MLB deeply cherished across generations.
