The Big Unit Gets His Number in the Sky: Mariners Retire Randy Johnson's #51

The Seattle Mariners just hung another legendary number from the T-Mobile Park rafters. Randy Johnson's #51 is now retired, joining the pantheon of Emerald City greats who have earned that honor. Last year it was Ichiro. This time, it was the Big Unit's turn to shine, and T-Mobile Park was absolutely packed for it.

A Packed House For a Seattle Icon

There is something special about retirement ceremonies at T-Mobile Park. The energy, the history, the sense that you are witnessing a moment that matters. Johnson's number retirement on May 2, 2026 was no exception. A crowd filled the ballpark to capacity to celebrate one of the most dominant pitchers in franchise history. The Big Unit dominated during his time in Seattle, and on this day, the fans made sure he knew exactly how much that meant to them.

Part of Mariners Lore

With Ichiro's number already hanging in the rafters from last year's ceremony, the Mariners are building a visible reminder of the franchise's greatest moments. These retired numbers represent the standard that everyone who puts on a Seattle uniform is chasing. It is a message: this is what greatness looks like in the Emerald City. And now, every time you look up at T-Mobile Park, you see both Ichiro and Randy Johnson staring back at you.

The celebration was a reminder of why fans show up. This is what we play for, what we remember, what we pass down to the next generation of Mariners fans. Not every player gets his number retired. Johnson earned it.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.