The only number retired across all MLB teams is Jackie Robinson’s No. 42, but Joe Espada wants to add Roberto Clemente’s No. 21.
Clemente was the first Latin-born player to win NL MVP, a World Series MVP, and a World Series title as a starting position player in MLB. He was also known for his humanitarian efforts and died in a plane crash on Dec. 31, 1972, while delivering aid to earthquake victims in Nicaragua.
“What Roberto Clemente has done, what he represents, what he did opened the doors to a lot of people like me,” said Espada on Sunday via the Houston Chronicle. “I think it should be an MLB celebration where that number should be in every corner of every major-league stadium. That’s how I feel about that.”
Espada shares Puerto Rican roots with Clemente.
Roberto Clemente Day:
Sunday marked Roberto Clemente Day in MLB, with many players wearing No. 21 to honor him, including seven Astros players, Espada himself, and hitting coach Alex Cintrón.
Espada expressed pride in this tribute: “It’s a celebration of a man who did so much for Latin communities and represents more than just his baseball achievements.”
Fans might think it’s high time for another legend’s number to be universally honored.
Clemente is one of three players with their own day in Major League Baseball: Jackie Robinson Day on April 15th, Lou Gehrig Day on June 2nd, and Roberto Clemente Day on September 15th.
What do you think? Should Clemente’s number be retired across all teams?
