The New York Yankees were able to catch a little bit of a break from their struggles yesterday, and not just because of their 4-2 win over the Toronto Blue Jays.
Yesterday was a special day in the Bronx, as the Yankees retired the number of one of their legends in Paul O’Neill.
O’Neill played eight seasons for the Cincinnati Reds and nine with the Yankees, wearing No. 21 with both teams.
He was a part of four World Series teams during his tenure with the Yankees, winning titles in 1996, 1998, 1999, and 2000.
On Twitter, O’Neill thanked Yankees fans for a special day and expressed excitement over the Yankees victory.
Yankees fans- you never cease to amaze me! What a great day and an unbelievable honor..and a Yankees win! pic.twitter.com/fi4OYASgex
— Paul O'Neill (@PaulONeillYES) August 21, 2022
O’Neill’s Legacy
O’Neill will always be loved in the Bronx.
He was a key factor on so many great Yankees teams.
He was a fixture in a Yankees uniform, having played alongside greats such as Bernie Williams, Derek Jeter, David Cone, Roger Clemens, Mariano Rivera, and other Yankee legends.
He retired after the 2001 season, finishing his career with a 38.9 WAR, 281 home runs, and a .288 batting average.
He won five rings, one with the Reds and four with the Yankees.
He was also a five-time All-Star and won a batting title.
Needless to say, it was a special day in New York as the Yankees honored one of their many legends.
Anytime a team honors one of their greats, whether it’s retiring their number or having them throw out the first pitch, it’s always special.
Yankees fans loved O’Neill and he loved playing for the Yankees and being a part of so many great teams.
No. 21 will be remembered forever in the Bronx, and for good reason.
A win for the Yankees yesterday was just the icing on the cake.
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