Every October, Major League Baseball (MLB) fans eagerly anticipate the playoffs, with hopes that their favorite teams will reach the World Series. In 2025, the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Toronto Blue Jays competed in MLB’s most prestigious championship. Winning this coveted title not only signifies excellence on the field but also comes with a distinctive keepsake: the World Series ring.
World Series rings have been a celebrated tradition for over a century, serving as a lasting reminder of a team’s triumph. The first rings were awarded in 1922 to the New York Giants, who defeated the New York Yankees. Initially, these rings were simple gold bands inscribed with the phrase “Giants World Champions 1922,” adorned with baseball bats, a scroll, and a small diamond at the center. Before the introduction of rings, championship teams typically received medals, pins, or watches.
As the 1920s progressed, the custom of awarding World Series rings gained popularity. By the time the St. Louis Cardinals claimed victory in 1931, the tradition became standard for all championship teams.
Who Receives World Series Rings?
The distribution of World Series rings varies by team, with ownership ultimately deciding who will receive these prestigious tokens. Generally, active roster players and coaches are guaranteed rings. Additionally, former players who contributed significantly during the season, injured players, and front office staff often receive rings as well. Support staff, including trainers and groundskeepers, may also be honored with rings, depending on the owners’ discretion.
Teams may also produce different versions of the rings. The primary design is often larger and more elaborate, given to active players, coaches, and executives. Smaller, simpler versions may be distributed to other team members, reflecting a more understated acknowledgment of their contributions.
The Art of Designing World Series Rings
The design of World Series rings involves collaboration between winning teams and various jewelers, including renowned names like Tiffany & Co., Balfour, and Jostens. These rings often feature unique elements that celebrate the team’s journey throughout the season. Notable examples include the 1979 Pittsburgh Pirates’ ring, which incorporated their slogan “We Are Family,” and the 2016 Chicago Cubs’ ring, adorned with 108 diamonds to commemorate their long-awaited championship after a 108-year drought.
Recent rings have showcased creative designs as well. The 2021 Atlanta Braves’ ring included a miniature version of their home stadium, while the 2023 Texas Rangers’ ring featured a logo adorned with 49 rubies, representing the players on their roster.
Major League Baseball contributes $1,500 per ring for players, coaches, managers, and general managers on the winning team. If teams wish to extend this honor to additional staff members, they must cover the costs from their own budgets.
The legacy of World Series rings is further cemented by players who have garnered multiple championships. Among them, Yogi Berra holds the record with an impressive 10 World Series rings, a testament to his remarkable career with the New York Yankees. Other notable players include Joe DiMaggio with 9 championships and Bill Dickey with 8.
As the 2025 World Series approaches, fans and players alike will continue to look forward to the ultimate reward—a symbol of dedication, teamwork, and victory that is the World Series ring.
