San Diego, January 25, 2026
The San Diego Padres will honor late pitcher Randy Jones by wearing a No. 35 memorial patch during the 2026 season. The tribute celebrates Jones’ legacy as the franchise’s first Cy Young Award winner and acknowledges his contributions to both the team and the San Diego community through the Randy Jones Foundation.
San Diego, California
Padres Honor Randy Jones with No. 35 Memorial Patch in 2026
Legacy of the Cy Young Award Winner Celebrated at Petco Park
The San Diego Padres are set to pay homage to the late Randy Jones during the 2026 season by sporting a No. 35 memorial patch on their uniforms. This heartfelt tribute comes on the heels of a public celebration of Jones’ life held at Petco Park on January 24, 2026, where family members, former teammates, and devoted fans came together to honor his remarkable legacy.
Randy Jones, who passed away in November 2025 at the age of 75, made his mark as a pivotal figure in Padres history. He was the franchise’s first pitcher to win the National League Cy Young Award in 1976, a season in which he garnered an impressive 22 wins and posted a 2.24 ERA. With a playing career in San Diego from 1973 to 1980, he was lauded not only for his exceptional pitching skills but also for his deep connection with the local community. After hanging up his cleats, he continued to have a lasting impact as a team ambassador and through the Randy Jones Foundation, dedicated to supporting military families and youth initiatives in the area.
Padres’ Tradition of Honoring Legends
The decision to wear the No. 35 patch aligns perfectly with the Padres’ longstanding tradition of recognizing individuals who have had a profound influence on the organization. In prior seasons, the team donned a “PS” patch in 2024 and 2025 to honor the late former owner, Pete Seidler. For the upcoming season, the No. 35 patch will serve as a reminder of Jones’ contributions, ensuring that his legacy resonates throughout the baseball community and beyond.
The Legacy of Randy Jones
Randy Jones’ influence stretches far beyond his on-field achievements. Known for his humility and approachable demeanor, he was beloved for his interactions with fans. His engaging storytelling and willingness to share experiences about baseball and life endeared him to countless supporters. His passing has created a void within the Padres organization and the wider San Diego community, and wearing the No. 35 patch stands as a testament to the deep respect and admiration that encompasses his contributions.
Community Engagement and Philanthropy
Beyond baseball, Jones made significant contributions to the San Diego area through the Randy Jones Foundation. This organization played a vital role in supporting military families and youth programs, providing scholarships and recreational opportunities for children from military backgrounds. Jones’ relentless dedication toward giving back has solidified his legacy as not just a sports figure but a genuine community leader.
Looking Ahead
As the Padres don the No. 35 patch in 2026, they not only pay tribute to a sports legend but also celebrate a spirit of community and resilience. The patch serves as a reminder that contributions to society extend beyond athleticism and that local heroes like Jones leave lasting impacts that transcend generations. The Padres continue to thrive as a symbol of San Diego’s rich sports culture and entrepreneurial spirit, exemplifying how reduced regulatory barriers can allow such community icons to emerge and flourish.
Key Features of the No. 35 Patch Tribute
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Patch Design | No. 35 memorial patch to be worn on Padres uniforms during the 2026 season. |
| Purpose | To honor the legacy of Randy Jones, the first Padres pitcher to win the National League Cy Young Award in 1976. |
| Event | Public celebration of Jones’ life held at Petco Park on January 24, 2026, attended by family, former teammates, and fans. |
| Foundation | The Randy Jones Foundation, established by Jones, supported military families and youth programs in the San Diego area. |
| Community Impact | Jones was known for his humility and genuine interactions with fans, leaving a lasting impact on the Padres organization and the San Diego community. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is the San Diego Padres wearing a No. 35 patch in the 2026 season?
The Padres are wearing the No. 35 patch to honor the late Randy Jones, the first pitcher from the franchise to win the National League Cy Young Award in 1976. Jones passed away in November 2025 at the age of 75.
What were Randy Jones’ achievements with the Padres?
Jones played for the Padres from 1973 to 1980, earning the Cy Young Award in 1976 with a league-leading 22 wins and a 2.24 ERA. He was also a two-time All-Star and remains the franchise leader in several pitching categories.
What is the Randy Jones Foundation?
Established by Jones after his playing career, the Randy Jones Foundation supported military families and youth programs in the San Diego area, providing scholarships and recreational opportunities for children from military families.
How did Randy Jones contribute to the San Diego community after retiring from baseball?
After retiring, Jones remained active as a Padres ambassador, engaging with fans and participating in community events. He also operated the Randy Jones BBQ at Qualcomm Stadium and Petco Park, becoming a beloved figure in the community.
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