Throughout my checkered youth sports career, I always wore the No. 7. Why? Because Ron Jaworski wore the same number, and he was my favorite football player when I was a kid. It was my way of emulating him, and the number stuck with me. Now, I emulate him by growing out a luxurious mustache and hating Tony Kornheiser.

The newest member of the New York Yankees also wears a number that’s a tribute to a childhood sports hero. Alfredo Aceves grew up watching the Chicago Bulls during their championship run, and his uniform number reflects the player who fascinated him. No, he’s not going to be No. 23: he tells the NEW YORK TIMES he’s wearing No. 91 in honor of Dennis Rodman. Read more…