why do mlb players wear 21

MLB players wear the number 21 as a tribute to Roberto Clemente, the legendary Puerto Rican Hall of Famer who wore that number throughout his career. Major League Baseball honors Clemente annually on September 15, known as Roberto Clemente Day, with all players, managers, coaches, and umpires wearing a patch with the number 21. Additionally, players of Puerto Rican heritage, past Roberto Clemente Award winners, and nominees for the award may wear number 21 on their jerseys during games around this date. This tradition celebrates Clemente’s outstanding career, humanitarian work, and legacy as a trailblazer in baseball and beyond.