Mariners unveil statue honoring 116-win 2001 team and 9/11 unity

The Seattle Mariners unveiled a new statue at T-Mobile Park this week honoring their historic 2001 team, which tied the 1906 Chicago Cubs for the most regular-season wins in MLB history with 116 victories.

The monument, part of the Mariners Legacy Plaza, also serves as a tribute to the resilience of baseball and the nation after the September 11 attacks, which interrupted the 2001 season. The team’s dominance that year—led by stars like Ichiro Suzuki, Bret Boone, and Freddy García—provided a unifying distraction for fans during a difficult time. The statue’s placement near the ballpark’s main entrance ensures visitors will pass it on their way to games, keeping the legacy of that season alive.

The 2001 Mariners fell just short of a World Series berth, losing to the Yankees in the ALCS, but their regular-season achievement remains one of the most celebrated in franchise history. The statue joins other Legacy Plaza installations, including tributes to Ken Griffey Jr. and Edgar Martínez, reinforcing the team’s commitment to preserving its past. Team officials noted the 2001 squad’s impact went beyond wins, symbolizing hope and perseverance during a pivotal moment in U.S. history.

Fans can expect more Legacy Plaza additions in the coming years, as the Mariners continue to honor key figures and moments from their 47-year history. The 2001 team’s statue, in particular, serves as a reminder of how sports can rally communities in times of need.