Overview
- The Giants formally retired Jeff Kent’s No. 21 on Saturday between games of a day-night doubleheader against the Arizona Diamondbacks after a rainout forced the schedule change.
- Kent, a recent Hall of Fame inductee via the Contemporary Baseball Era Committee, delivered remarks that highlighted his career with San Francisco and praised teammates who helped his success.
- During the ceremony Kent embraced Barry Bonds, comically reenacted their 2002 dugout scuffle, and told Bonds publicly, “Barry, keep with it brother, you’ve got a shot, man.”
- The on-field ceremony included a video tribute, appearances by franchise legends, a ceremonial first pitch to Kent’s father Alan, and a celebratory ride around the field chased by mascot Lou Seal.
- Beyond the celebration, Kent’s induction and number retirement underscore the Hall of Fame divide: Kent was elected by the committee while Bonds remains unelected and faces procedural limits that could delay his next committee chance.