San Diego, CA, January 26, 2026
The San Diego Padres have announced that players will wear a No. 35 patch in the 2026 season to honor late pitcher Randy Jones, the franchise’s first homegrown star. The announcement was made during a celebration of life ceremony at Petco Park, attended by Padres alumni, family, and fans. Jones, who passed away at 75, was a Cy Young Award winner and community advocate. The patch will replace the previous ‘PS’ patch, continuing the team’s tradition of honoring impactful figures.
San Diego Padres to Honor Late Pitcher Randy Jones with No. 35 Patch in 2026 Season
San Diego, CA – The San Diego Padres have announced that during the 2026 season, players will wear a No. 35 patch on their uniforms to honor the late Randy Jones, the franchise’s first homegrown star and a Cy Young Award winner. Jones, who pitched for the Padres from 1973 to 1980, passed away in November at the age of 75. The announcement was made during a celebration of life ceremony at Petco Park, attended by current and former Padres, team executives, family members, and fans.
Jones was inducted into the Padres Hall of Fame in 1999, and his No. 35 jersey was retired by the team nearly three decades ago. Known for his sinker and ability to induce ground outs, Jones earned All-Star honors in 1975 and 1976. In 1976, he led the majors with 22 wins and became the first Padres pitcher to win the Cy Young Award. Off the field, Jones founded the Randy Jones Foundation in 2015, focusing on providing sports and recreational opportunities for children from military families. He was also an advocate for cancer awareness, openly discussing his throat cancer diagnosis and emphasizing the risks of tobacco use and the importance of early detection. The No. 35 patch will replace the “PS” patch worn in 2024 and 2025, which honored former owner Pete Seidler. This tribute continues the Padres’ tradition of recognizing individuals who have significantly impacted the organization and the San Diego community.
Background on Randy Jones
Randy Jones was a pivotal figure in the early history of the San Diego Padres. Over his eight-year tenure with the team, he became synonymous with the franchise’s identity. His pitching prowess not only elevated the team’s performance but also drew fans to the ballpark during challenging seasons. Jones’s legacy extends beyond his athletic achievements; his community involvement and candidness about his health challenges have left a lasting impression on the Padres organization and its supporters.
Padres’ Tradition of Honoring Legends
The San Diego Padres have a history of honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to the team and the community. Previous tributes include the “PS” patch for Pete Seidler and the “RAK” patch for Ray Kroc. These commemorative patches serve as a testament to the organization’s appreciation and respect for those who have shaped its legacy.
Upcoming Season Expectations
As the 2026 season approaches, the Padres are poised to honor Randy Jones’s memory both on and off the field. The introduction of the No. 35 patch is a poignant reminder of the team’s rich history and the enduring impact of its legends. Fans and players alike can look forward to a season that pays homage to one of the franchise’s most cherished figures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the significance of the No. 35 patch on the Padres’ uniforms?
The No. 35 patch honors Randy Jones, the Padres’ first homegrown star and a Cy Young Award winner, who passed away in November at the age of 75. Jones pitched for the Padres from 1973 to 1980 and was inducted into the Padres Hall of Fame in 1999. The patch will be worn throughout the 2026 season to commemorate his contributions to the team and the San Diego community.
Why is the No. 35 patch replacing the “PS” patch?
The “PS” patch was worn in 2024 and 2025 to honor former owner Pete Seidler, who passed away in November 2023. The No. 35 patch will replace the “PS” patch as a tribute to Randy Jones, continuing the Padres’ tradition of recognizing individuals who have significantly impacted the organization and the community.
What other tributes has the Padres organization made to honor influential figures?
In addition to the “PS” patch for Pete Seidler, the Padres have honored other influential figures with commemorative patches. For example, following the death of owner Ray Kroc in 1984, the team wore a “RAK” patch on their uniforms for three seasons. These tributes reflect the organization’s appreciation for those who have shaped its legacy.
How did Randy Jones contribute to the Padres’ success?
Randy Jones was instrumental in the Padres’ success during the 1970s. Known for his sinker and ability to induce ground outs, he earned All-Star honors in 1975 and 1976. In 1976, he led the majors with 22 wins and became the first Padres pitcher to win the Cy Young Award. His pitching prowess elevated the team’s performance and drew fans to the ballpark during challenging seasons.
What is the Randy Jones Foundation?
The Randy Jones Foundation, established in 2015, focuses on providing sports and recreational opportunities for children from military families. Jones, a military veteran himself, was committed to supporting the community and used his platform to raise awareness about cancer prevention and treatment. The foundation reflects his dedication to making a positive impact beyond the baseball field.
Key Features of the No. 35 Patch Tribute
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Patch Design | No. 35 to honor Randy Jones |
| Season | 2026 |
| Replaces | “PS” patch honoring Pete Seidler |
| Purpose | Commemorate Jones’s contributions to the Padres and San Diego community |
| Unveiling | Celebration of life ceremony at Petco Park |
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