Randy Johnson‘s Mariners Legacy: A “Big Unit” return to Seattle
Randy Johnson, the towering left-hander known as the “Big Unit,” will have his iconic No. 51 retired by the Seattle Mariners on May 2, 2026. This well-deserved honor recognizes Johnson’s significant contributions to the franchise and his lasting impact on the game of baseball.
While Johnson achieved legendary status with the Arizona Diamondbacks, winning four consecutive Cy Young Awards and a World Series title, he holds a special place in his heart for his time in Seattle. Let’s delve into the career that cemented his place among baseball’s all-time greats, with a particular focus on his formative years with the Mariners.
Early Career & Seattle Arrival
Johnson began his major league journey in 1988 with the Montreal Expos. A trade brought him to Seattle in 1989, marking the start of a decade-long relationship with the Mariners organization. Initially, he battled control issues, but he quickly evolved into a dominant force.
His breakthrough season arrived in 1993, were he posted a remarkable 19-8 record with a 3.24 ERA. This performance was the first glimpse of the dominance that would define his career,and it marked the beginning of his six seasons with over 300 strikeouts.
The Pivotal 1995 Season
The 1995 season stands out in Johnson’s memory as particularly meaningful. he delivered an exceptional performance, going 18-2 with a stellar 2.48 ERA, ultimately earning his first Cy Young Award. However, this success unfolded against a backdrop of uncertainty for the Mariners’ future in Seattle.
King County voters initially rejected a proposal for public funding for a new stadium.This threatened the team’s long-term viability in the city. Fortunately, the Mariners thrived on the field, reaching the American league Championship Series before falling to the Cleveland Indians. Ultimately,the King County Council approved funding,securing the team’s future.
“Looking back at it now and that story being documented by the mariners, it worked out,” Johnson reflected. “I’m just thankful that I was a big part of that and everybody else was a big part of it, and everything just kind of gelled for all the players.”
Beyond Seattle: A Hall of fame Career
Johnson’s career continued after his time in Seattle, with stops at several franchises. He was traded to the Houston Astros in 1998 and then flourished with the Arizona Diamondbacks (1999-2004,2007-08). He also pitched for the New York Yankees (2005-06) and the San Francisco Giants (2009).
Throughout his 22-year career, Johnson amassed astonishing statistics:
* Wins: 303
* Losses: 166
* ERA: 3.29
* Strikeouts: 4,875 (second only to Nolan Ryan)
You’ll find he’s one of only four pitchers in MLB history to achieve both 300 wins and 4,000 strikeouts, alongside Ryan, Roger Clemens, and Steve Carlton.
A Mariners Legend Remembered
Even after his departure, Johnson’s impact on the Mariners remained significant. He currently ranks second in franchise history in strikeouts and wins, and third in innings pitched.
His contributions were recognized with inductions into both the Mariners Hall of Fame (2012) and the National Baseball Hall of Fame (2015). The Arizona Diamondbacks also honored him by retiring his No. 51 in 2015.
As the Mariners prepare to officially retire Johnson’s number,it’s a moment to celebrate a true icon and acknowledge the indelible mark he left on the team and the city of Seattle. You can be sure this ceremony will be a memorable occasion for fans and a fitting tribute to a legendary player.
