The New York Yankees are synonymous with baseball excellence, and their iconic pinstripe jerseys have been worn by some of the greatest legends in the sport’s history. From Babe Ruth to Derek Jeter, the Yankees jersey isn’t just apparel — it’s a symbol of legacy, pride, and championship tradition. In this article, we rank the top 10 Yankees jerseys of all time, celebrating the players who defined the franchise while donning those famous pinstripes.
1. Babe Ruth (#3)
The original Sultan of Swat, Babe Ruth’s No. 3 jersey is arguably the most legendary in all of baseball. His tenure with the Yankees during the 1920s revolutionized the game, and his jersey remains an eternal symbol of power and charisma.
2. Lou Gehrig (#4)
Known as the “Iron Horse,” Lou Gehrig’s No. 4 jersey stands for durability, humility, and unmatched excellence. His back-to-back All-Star appearances and consecutive games played record make this jersey a treasured classic.
3. Joe DiMaggio (#5)
Joe DiMaggio’s No. 5 jersey is forever linked to grace and greatness, especially his 56-game hitting streak, an MLB record that still stands. The elegance he brought to the pinstripes is unmatched.
4. Mickey Mantle (#7)
The powerful switch-hitter and Yankee icon, Mickey Mantle’s No. 7 jersey symbolizes raw talent and clutch performance. Mantle’s seven World Series titles make his jersey a fan favorite.
5. Derek Jeter (#2)
Captain Clutch, Derek Jeter’s No. 2 jersey represents modern Yankees glory. Known for leadership and postseason heroics, Jeter’s pinstripes carried the team through multiple championships in the 2000s.
6. Yogi Berra (#8)
Yogi Berra’s No. 8 jersey brings to mind both outstanding catching skills and a personality beloved by fans. His contributions to 10 World Series wins cement this jersey’s place in history.
7. Mariano Rivera (#42)
The greatest closer in MLB history, Mariano Rivera’s No. 42 jersey (retired league-wide in honor of Jackie Robinson) is synonymous with postseason dominance and unparalleled consistency.
8. Reggie Jackson (#44)
“Mr. October” Reggie Jackson’s No. 44 jersey is famed for clutch World Series performances, especially his three home runs in a single World Series game. His pinstripes signify flair and power.
9. Whitey Ford (#16)
Pitching legend Whitey Ford’s No. 16 jersey stands for excellence on the mound and Yankee tradition. His World Series MVP and career wins record highlight the significance of this number.
10. Andy Pettitte (#46)
Andy Pettitte’s No. 46 jersey represents longevity and postseason success, with multiple World Series titles contributing to the Yankees’ late 90s and early 2000s dynasty.
Honorable Mentions
- Don Mattingly (#23) – Beloved for his hitting prowess and leadership.
- Bernie Williams (#51) – Key contributor to five World Series championships.
- Paul O’Neill (#21) – Known for his clutch hitting and fiery personality.
Why Yankees Jerseys Are More Than Just Uniforms
Each Yankees jersey tells a story — of records shattered, moments immortalized, and legacies forged. Wearing these pinstripes means carrying on a tradition that dates back over a century, steeped in history and championship pedigree.
Final Thoughts: Choose Your Legend
Whether you’re a fan of the Old Timers like Babe Ruth or modern icons like Derek Jeter and Mariano Rivera, the Yankees jersey you wear reflects your connection to baseball greatness. Collecting or wearing these jerseys keeps the spirit of the Bronx Bombers alive for generations to come.
Which Yankees jersey is your all-time favorite?