Francisco Lindor, the New York Mets shortstop, wears jersey number 21 as a tribute to Roberto Clemente, the legendary Pittsburgh Pirates right fielder and Puerto Rican icon who also wore 21.

Honoring Clemente Day

MLB annually celebrates Roberto Clemente Day around September 15, allowing Puerto Rican players like Lindor and those nominated for the Roberto Clemente Award to wear No. 21 league-wide.

Lindor notably homered while donning 21 during Mets' Clemente Day events at Citi Field last fall, blending his heritage with baseball history.

This tradition expanded in recent years so all players wear a 21 patch, amplifying Clemente's legacy of excellence and humanitarianism.

Lindor's Puerto Rican Pride

As a proud Puerto Rican, Lindor often highlights Clemente as an idol—once calling wearing 21 "super special" during his Indians days.

Fan forums buzz with appreciation, like Reddit threads noting Lindor's jersey swaps for Clemente tributes during key games.

"Francisco Lindor homered tonight while wearing #21 to honor Roberto Clemente as the Mets celebrated Roberto Clemente Day."

Why 21 for Clemente?

Clemente chose 21 because his full name, Roberto Clemente Walker, contains exactly 21 letters—a quirky personal nod.

Lindor echoes this by channeling that spirit, especially in high-stakes moments like playoffs or awards nights.

Recent Sightings

Recent forum chatter from October 2025 ties Lindor (and even Soto) wearing 21 to Puerto Rican player honors on Clemente nights.

No signs of permanent change—Lindor's standard No. 12 remains, with 21 reserved for tributes.

TL;DR: Lindor wears 21 to honor Roberto Clemente on MLB tribute days, reflecting his Puerto Rican roots and the legend's enduring impact.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.