Today marks the 60th anniversary of Jackie Robinson's first game, for the Brooklyn Dodgers in Ebbetts Field. Around the league, several players will don the retired number 42 for games today to commemorate the event. An "official" ceremony will take place at Dodger Stadium tonight at 8:00.
Robinson's number was retired across the league ten years ago on the 50th anniversary of Robinson's entry to the league. However, Commissioner Bud Selig responded to a request by Cincinnati Reds outfielder Ken Griffey, Jr. to wear the number, granting at least one member of every team to wear number 42 for today. Only New York Yankees closer Mariano Rivera wears the number everyday, as he was already wearing it when the number was retired in 1997.
Jackie Robinson was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1962. Today his legacy lives on in the Jackie Robinson Foundation, helping minority youth get into college. There is certainly more to say about this pioneer and amazing baseball player. We have however missed our chance to thank him personally as Jackie left us in 1972. Anyway, today, Thanks, Jackie, you did good.
1 comment:
Dmitri Young did well last night while wearing the #42 jersey for the Nats.
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