Mariners to Retire Randy Johnson’s No. 51 on May 2

The Seattle Mariners just dropped news that’s sure to hit Mariners fans right in the feels: legendary pitcher Randy Johnson’s No. 51 jersey is getting retired. Mark your calendars for May 2, 2025, at T-Mobile Park, right before Seattle faces off against the Boston Red Sox.

This night’s all about honoring one of the most dominant and unforgettable players to ever wear a Mariners uniform. Johnson, the towering lefty with a fastball that could practically scorch the leather off a mitt, left a permanent mark on Seattle during his run from 1989 to 1998.

He played a huge role in that wild 1995 playoff push, a memory that’s still fresh for longtime fans.

Randy Johnson’s Legacy in Seattle

Randy Johnson didn’t just take the mound—he changed the game for Seattle. Over ten seasons, he racked up accolades that put him among baseball’s best.

They called him the “Big Unit” for a reason. He made five All-Star teams as a Mariner and snagged his first Cy Young Award right here in teal and navy.

At 6’10”, with a fastball that touched 100 mph, Johnson struck fear into hitters everywhere. He wasn’t just tall; he was flat-out intimidating.

But his impact wasn’t just about stats. Johnson helped spark the Mariners’ rise in the mid-90s, giving fans moments they still talk about.

That 1995 season? He was front and center, carrying Seattle into its very first playoff run.

Franchise Records and Achievements

Even after all these years, Johnson’s name still sits atop the Mariners’ record books. He owns several team pitching records, including:

  • Most strikeouts in a single season
  • Best career strikeouts-per-nine-innings ratio
  • Multiple single-game strikeout milestones

Every pitcher who’s come through Seattle since has had to measure up to the bar he set.

No. 51 Joins the Mariners’ Hall of Honors

On May 2, 2025, Johnson’s No. 51 will officially hang among the franchise’s retired numbers. That puts him in rare company with names like Ken Griffey Jr. (No. 24) and Edgar Martinez (No. 11).

Those legends defined an era of Mariners baseball that still means the world to this city.

A Celebration Weekend for the Fans

The Mariners are lining up a weekend full of events to celebrate the jersey retirement. Fans can look forward to:

  • Special pre-game tributes
  • Video highlights of Johnson’s top moments
  • Limited-edition merch
  • Fan events celebrating his career

It’s a chance for the old guard to reminisce, and for new fans to get a taste of what made those years so special.

Impact Beyond Seattle

Johnson’s story doesn’t stop at the state line. After leaving Seattle, he kept racking up wins and Cy Youngs with other teams, eventually earning a spot in the Baseball Hall of Fame.

But ask around, and most folks still think of him as a Mariner first. Seattle’s where he grew from a raw talent into one of baseball’s most intimidating pitchers.

The Mariners’ Statement of Appreciation

Retiring his number isn’t just about the stats. The Mariners are saying, loud and clear, that Johnson’s presence—on and off the field—helped put this team on the map.

For fans, May 2, 2025 isn’t just another ceremony. It’s a chance to remember the roar of the Kingdome, the tension of those playoff chases, and the thrill of watching Johnson mow down hitters like it was nothing.

Final Thoughts

Seattle’s getting ready to retire Randy Johnson’s No. 51, and honestly, it’s shaping up to be one of the most unforgettable moments of the 2025 season. This isn’t just about a number hanging from the rafters.

It’s a nod to a guy who brought real pride, grit, and a whole lot of excitement to the city. The “Big Unit” left a mark that’s not fading anytime soon.

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