top of page
CARDINALS LEGACY
FOUNDATION FOR BASEBALL
8. Jersey Numbers
9 Things You Might Not Know About Baseball
Who was first team to wear Jersey Numbers on their back?
Both the Cleveland Indians and St Louis Cardinals had tried jerseys with numbers on the sleeve to help the fans differentiate the players but never for more than a few games.
​
In 1929, the New York Yankees and Cleveland Indians started the season with uniform numbers on the back of the jersey. The Yankees were rained out on opening day. The Cleveland Indians were the first MLB franchise to wear numbers on the back in a game.
​
Initially they wore numbers based on the batting order. For example, Babe Ruth always hit third, so he was number 3.
This Shirt is perfect for Baseball Lovers
Support us by buying one of our exclusively designed, beautriful t-shirts.
The Cleveland Indians Logo from 1929 when their jersey's first sported numbers on the back.
bottom of page