Childhood and Education Journey of Randy Johnson in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: June 2, 2025

How education and upbringing influenced the life of Randy Johnson. A timeline of key moments.

Randy Johnson, nicknamed "the Big Unit," is a retired American professional baseball pitcher. He played for 22 seasons (1988-2009) in Major League Baseball, primarily with the Seattle Mariners and Arizona Diamondbacks. Johnson played for six teams total and was known for his intimidating height and powerful fastball.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

1988: Acquisition of the nickname "Big Unit"

In 1988, during batting practice with the Montreal Expos, Randy Johnson collided with Tim Raines, leading to the nickname "Big Unit".

1989: Birth of daughter, Heather Renee Roszell

In 1989, Randy Johnson's daughter from a previous relationship, Heather Renee Roszell, was born.

1994: Birth of son, Sammy

In 1994, Randy Johnson's son, Sammy, was born.

1996: Birth of son, Tanner

In 1996, Randy Johnson's son, Tanner, was born.

1998: Appearance in Nike commercials

In 1998, Randy Johnson appeared in several commercials for Nike, humorously portraying his attempts at batting practice.

1998: Birth of daughter, Willow

In 1998, Randy Johnson's daughter, Willow, was born.

1999: Birth of daughter, Alexandria

In 1999, Randy Johnson's daughter, Alexandria, was born.

March 24, 2001: Accidental Death of a Dove

On March 24, 2001, during a spring training game against the San Francisco Giants at Tucson Electric Park, Randy Johnson's fastball struck and killed a dove during the 7th inning. The event was ruled a 'no pitch,' and the moment became iconic in baseball history.

March 19, 2006: Guest appearance on The Simpsons

On March 19, 2006, Randy Johnson guest-starred in The Simpsons episode "Bart Has Two Mommies".

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2006: Season Performance and Injury Revelation

In 2006, Randy Johnson finished the season with a 17–11 record and a 5.00 ERA. It was revealed at the end of the season that he had a herniated disc in his back. After receiving epidural anesthesia, he started in game 3 of the ALDS, giving up 5 runs in 52⁄3 innings.

January 2007: Trade Back to the Diamondbacks

In January 2007, the Yankees traded Randy Johnson back to the Arizona Diamondbacks for Luis Vizcaíno, Alberto González, Steven Jackson, and Ross Ohlendorf. This decision was based on Randy Johnson's desire to be closer to his family in Phoenix after his brother's death.

2012: Appearance in Pepsi Max TV ad

In 2012, Randy Johnson appeared in a TV ad for Pepsi Max.

2016: Appearance in Mini Clubman TV ad

In 2016, Randy Johnson appeared in a TV ad for the Mini Clubman.

2022: Appearance in DirecTV Stream commercial

In 2022, Randy Johnson appeared in a commercial for the streaming service DirecTV Stream parodying Ghostbusters, alongside former teammates and Hall of Famers, battling a giant Mr. Redlegs.