When the final out is caught and the confetti rains down on the World Series champions, the celebrations begin—and so does the countdown to one of the most coveted symbols in professional sports: the MLB championship ring. But have you ever wondered who actually receives one of these gleaming trophies of victory? While most people think only the players get them, the truth is much more inclusive and fascinating.
The MLB Championship Ring: A Tradition of Glory
The MLB championship ring is far more than just jewelry. It represents a season’s worth of sweat, strategy, and sacrifice. Awarded to commemorate a World Series win, these rings are intricately designed and often feature precious metals, diamonds, and engravings that capture the team’s identity and history.
The tradition of giving rings to players dates back to 1922, when the New York Giants were the first to award them instead of medals or watch fobs. Over the decades, the design and significance of the rings have evolved, becoming more extravagant and more symbolic. Today, the ring is the ultimate mark of success in Major League Baseball.
But the recipients of these rings extend beyond just the 25 or so players on the postseason roster.
Players: The Core of Recognition
Naturally, every player who was part of the championship-winning roster receives a ring. This includes those who played a crucial role during the regular season and postseason. But what about players who were traded or sent down before the postseason began?
Teams have wide discretion here. Often, even players who contributed earlier in the season but were no longer with the team at the time of the championship may still receive a ring. This gesture acknowledges their role in laying the foundation for the team’s success. For example, a pitcher who helped secure wins in the first half of the season but was later traded might still be recognized.
Coaching Staff: The Strategists Behind the Scenes
Just as players fight on the field, coaches shape the game plan. Hitting coaches, pitching coaches, base coaches, bench coaches, and the manager—all receive rings. Their tireless efforts in training, analysis, and motivation are critical to the team’s success.
Coaches often receive rings of similar design and value to the players, especially in high-profile franchises. They’re part of the strategic core and are valued just as highly as the athletes they guide.
Front Office Executives: Architects of the Team
Building a championship-winning team starts long before Opening Day. General managers, scouting directors, analytics experts, and other front-office staff play crucial roles in crafting a roster and maintaining its performance throughout the season.
That’s why team executives—from the general manager to key support roles in baseball operations—often receive championship rings. These are usually among the highest-tier rings produced, reflecting the strategic role these individuals played in bringing a championship to life.
Trainers, Medical Staff, and Equipment Managers
While they may not appear in postgame interviews or highlight reels, the behind-the-scenes team is vital. Athletic trainers, team doctors, physical therapists, and massage therapists ensure players stay in peak condition and recover from injuries efficiently.
Similarly, clubhouse attendants and equipment managers make sure every bat, ball, and jersey is game-ready. These roles may not be glamorous, but they are essential. MLB teams often honor their dedication by awarding rings to these unsung heroes.
Support and Administrative Staff: The Engine of Operations
Beyond the field and clubhouse lies a network of people who keep the organization running—marketing staff, ticket sales, communications, travel coordinators, and even the human resources department.
Many teams choose to recognize long-standing or pivotal staff members in these departments with their own championship rings. While the ring tiers may vary—some staff may receive a simpler version—the message is clear: your contribution mattered.
Minor League Affiliates: Extending the Family
In some cases, a franchise may choose to honor key minor league coaches, trainers, or players who were called up during the season. These individuals contribute directly or indirectly to the success of the major league club, either through player development or on-field performance.
While minor leaguers typically don’t receive the top-tier rings, their contributions are sometimes acknowledged with a version of the ring or other championship memorabilia.
Owners and Family Members
Team owners typically receive one of the most extravagant ring versions, often customized to reflect their status. In some cases, owners gift rings to family members, close friends, or influential business partners.
This helps reinforce a culture of appreciation and loyalty throughout the organization, and it sometimes extends into personal networks and inner circles.
Broadcasters and Media Team
Longtime broadcasters and in-house media production crews who document and share the team’s journey often receive rings, especially if they are considered part of the organizational fabric.
These storytellers help connect the fans to the heart of the team and are sometimes honored for their role in preserving and celebrating the championship journey.
Fans? Yes, Sometimes!
In rare cases, teams have awarded commemorative versions of their championship rings to season ticket holders, contest winners, or VIP fans. These aren’t the same high-end rings players receive, but they often feature similar designs and carry significant sentimental value.
It’s a way to involve the fanbase—the “10th man”—in the victory and deepen their emotional connection with the team.
Tiers of Championship Rings: Not All Are Created Equal
A crucial part of understanding who gets a ring is understanding that not all rings are created equally. While every ring represents the championship, there are often multiple tiers:
- Tier 1: Player and Executive Rings – Highest in material value and detail.
- Tier 2: Coaches and Key Staff Rings – Slightly more modest but still premium.
- Tier 3: Administrative and Operational Staff Rings – More practical in design, often with fewer diamonds.
- Tier 4: Commemorative Rings for Friends, Family, and Fans – Symbolic and collectible.
The use of tiers allows organizations to recognize a wide swath of contributors while managing the overall cost and logistics of distributing potentially hundreds of rings.
The Symbolism: Unity in Victory
The beauty of MLB championship rings lies not only in their sparkle but in what they represent: a unifying symbol of victory that binds everyone in the organization together. Whether you’re striking out batters or booking hotel rooms for a road trip, your role matters. The ring is a reminder that success in baseball is never a solo act—it’s the culmination of collaboration, dedication, and effort across departments.
The ring tells the story of a season. It’s a time capsule, a badge of honor, and a motivator. For players, it may be a once-in-a-career achievement. For longtime staff, it could be a reward for decades of loyalty.
Not Everyone Gets a Ring—And That’s Okay
While many within the organization are honored, not every employee receives a ring. Some receive other forms of recognition, such as pendants, watches, or framed memorabilia. It’s ultimately at the discretion of team ownership and the executive team.
However, most teams aim to be generous, recognizing the spirit of teamwork that extends beyond the dugout. After all, morale and loyalty are essential components of an enduring winning culture.
Final Thoughts: More Than a Ring
So, who gets an MLB ring? The answer reaches far beyond just the players. Coaches, executives, support staff, media personnel, and even some fans may all be part of this memorable tradition. Each ring is a tribute to a season of effort, sacrifice, and collaboration. The MLB championship ring is not just a trophy—it’s a shared legacy.
Whether you’re a baseball fanatic, a sports memorabilia collector, or part of a local team that just won big, a championship ring is a meaningful symbol of success and pride. And you don’t need to be a pro athlete to own one.
Find Your Perfect Championship Ring Today
At Discount Sports Rings, we celebrate victory at every level. Whether you’re honoring your Little League champs, your high school varsity team, or your corporate softball heroes, we have the perfect ring for you.
