The Mariners are retiring Randy Johnson’s No. 51 tonight. This is from a picture day years ago, probably 1991.
Yes, it’s blurry, but it was in the days of film cameras, lots of jostling people. Randy had reached over to get Ashlan for the picture. And we love it.
Speaking of Ashlan, number 51 has always been special to her, because it’s also her birthday. Yesterday that is. And we did get to do a video call with an impromptu singing of Happy Birthday to her by her 4-year old son. His birthday was a week ago so he was well versed in the song.
From the ceremony
For those who were familiar with Randy Johnson as a pitcher, he was 6′-10″ tall with an intimidating fastball and slider. And he was fierce.
They had special balls for the game. A ground rule double was caught by a fan two seats away from us.
It was a very nice tribute, they retired his number, and announced they will be erecting a statue of Randy in the near future.
Raincharm's Weblog 
May 3, 2026 at 9:18 am |
The Big Unit? That photo with your daughter is incredible! Happy Birthday to her–one of my late brother’s birthdays is the 10th, Sharky’s the 20th and my mom’s the 30th, plus some friends with birthdays this month.
May 3, 2026 at 9:43 am |
The Big Unit is so tall. He stood next to Rick Rizz, who is short. I don’t think he reached his shoulder.
My sister’s birthday is the 6th. We don’t have any really packed months of birthdays, but July has a birthday and lots of wedding anniversaries.