What MLB Player Numbers Were Retired by Three Teams?

Two legendary MLB players have had their uniform numbers retired by three different teams: Frank Robinson's #20 and Nolan Ryan's #34. This rare distinction highlights their profound impact on multiple franchises.

A Rare Honor in Baseball

While Jackie Robinson's iconic #42 is universally retired across all of Major League Baseball—a league-wide tribute—a unique recognition is bestowed upon players whose numbers are retired by three specific teams they played for. This honor signifies an exceptional career and lasting legacy with each of those clubs. There are two such players in MLB history.

Frank Robinson: #20

Frank Robinson, a Hall of Famer and one of the most impactful figures in baseball history, had his #20 retired by three different organizations. Robinson is famously the only player to win the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award in both the National League and American League. His number was retired by the Cincinnati Reds, Baltimore Orioles, and Cleveland Guardians (formerly Indians), reflecting his significant contributions as both a player and, for the Indians, as the first Black manager in MLB history. He consistently wore #20 for each of these teams during his playing career.

Nolan Ryan: #34

Nolan Ryan, often referred to as "The Ryan Express," is another baseball icon whose #34 was retired by three different teams. A dominant pitcher known for his blazing fastball and remarkable longevity, Ryan holds MLB records for career strikeouts (5,714) and no-hitters (7). His number was honored by the Los Angeles Angels (originally the California Angels), Houston Astros, and Texas Rangers, teams where he spent significant portions of his storied career, cementing his legacy in multiple fan bases.

These dual distinctions underscore the remarkable careers of both Frank Robinson and Nolan Ryan, whose legacies are forever etched into the fabric of multiple MLB franchises.