Uniform number 42 retired first by the Dodgers, then by Major League Baseball in 1997. Active players wearing number 42 at that time were allowed to continue wearing it until they retired or were traded to another team.
Was the National League's Most Valuable Player in 1949 for leading league in Batting Average (.342), Stolen Bases (37), and Sacrifice Hits (17). Finished in top 10 in voting for same award in 1947, 1951 and 1952.
Was traded to the New York Giants after the 1956 season, but decided to retire instead.
Was virtually blind and facing leg amputations at the time of his death as a result of complications from diabetes.