Playing by the numbers

Babe Ruth

The New York Yankees announce 97 years ago today they will become the first team in the majors to permanently wear numbers on their uniforms.

They initially issue numbers based on their batting order, which is why No. 3 hitter Babe Ruth is given uniform No. 3 with cleanup hitter Lou Gehrig following with No. 4 at, Bob Meusel at 5, Tony Lazzeri at 6 and so on.

The top of the batting order has Earle Combs wearing No. 1 with Mark Koenig at No. 2.

Infielder Leo Durocher receives No. 7, while catchers Johnny Grabowski and Benny Bengough get 8 and 9, respectively.

By 1931, every American League team uses numbers on their jerseys with the National League following in 1933.

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