Major League Baseball has honored Jackie Robinson’s breaking of the color barrier every April 15 since 2004, and the tradition will continue Friday with a special celebration involving all 30 teams.
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Those looking to deeply understand the struggle, journey, and eventual breakthrough Robinson experienced, and his deep impact on the game of baseball, should check out Ken Burns’ new film, Jackie Robinson, being distributed by PBS.
While the No. 42 is retired across the league, an exception is made every Jackie Robinson Day, as all players don the number in a show of respect for one of the true trailblazers in baseball, sports and life in general.
In view of Robinson’s historic contributions to players of all races and the enduring work of his wife, Rachel, and daughter, Sharon, MLBPA Executive Director Tony Clark said it was fitting that the union increase its commitment to the ideals represented by Robinson, his family and their foundation. It’s a big deal. (Robinson reluctantly posed for a photo with Chapman afterwards, pictured above.) “For one wild and rage-crazed minute, I thought, “To hell with Mr. Rickey’s noble experiment”, said Robinson at one point, according to The New York Times. I think it reminds us what people have to go through to be successful. The uniforms are reminiscent of the Bruins’ strip from the 1940s, the era when Robinson graced the UCLA roster. He signed with the Brooklyn Dodgers on April 15th, 1947.
And what Robinson was, Girardi said, was a lot of things, but most importantly a pioneer.
Robinson played most of his career for the Brooklyn Dodgers (known today as the LA Dodgers) and received numerous awards in recognition of his talents during his ten years as a professional baseball player.
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And to add to the excitement, playing their first season game at the stadium will be Edward Waters College and Florida Memorial University, the two oldest HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) in Florida.
