The number 11 has been worn by a diverse array of Yankees players, coaches, and managers over the years, each contributing uniquely to the team’s legacy. Among them are a shortstop nicknamed “Chicken” for his slender build, a formidable All-Star slugger with a swing that could create a whirlwind, a catcher who once challenged owner George Steinbrenner, a former manager now at CitiField, an All-Star second baseman who developed throwing issues, a Mets legend who threw a no-hitter for the Yankees, and a left fielder known for enthusiastically striking the dugout ceiling with his bat.
These are the figures who have donned No. 11, a number now chosen by rookie shortstop Anthony Volpe. Although Volpe, at 21, has been a lifelong Yankees fan, some of these names may be less familiar to him, given their history.
Fred “Chicken” Stanley, known for his slight frame, wore No. 11 from 1973-1979. Gary Sheffield, who played for the Yankees from 2004-2006, hit 509 career home runs with a powerful swing and won a World Series with the Florida Marlins in 1997.
Rick Cerone, a catcher who infamously argued with Steinbrenner in 1981, wore the number during his 1990 stint with the Yankees. Buck Showalter managed the Yankees and Mets, wearing No. 11 from 1992-1995.
Chuck Knoblauch, a four-time All-Star and World Series champ, wore it from 1998-2001 before being moved to left field due to throwing issues. Brett Gardner, a fan favorite, wore No. 11 from 2008-2021.
Dwight Gooden, noteworthy for his no-hitter in 1996, also wore the number in 1997. Other outstanding players and coaches who wore No. 11 include Bill Robinson, Lefty Grove, Hector Lopez, Johnny Sain, and Jeff Torborg.