Today MLB celebrates the 60th anniversary of Jackie Robinson's breaking of the color barrier:
On April 15, 1947, Jackie Robinson played in his first major league game and suceeded in breaking the color barrier that divided baseball. Over the course of Jackie Robinson's rookie year, he endured racist taunts from both fans and opposing players. On his first trip to Cincinnati, the fans cursed, taunted, threw bottles, and hurled racist epithets at Robinson. The scene became so raucous and dangerous that Brooklyn manager Burt Shotton briefly considered pulling Robinson from the game.
Today, Cinncinati outfielder Ken Griffey, Jr. wore Jackie Robinson's number 42 in tribute to the man who blazed the trail. He was joined by many other MLB stars and the entire Dodgers team will wear 42 tonight.
An admirable gesture from Griffey and MLB. Today is a day to remember Jackie Robinson.
May I humbly suggest that this blog should take a moment and remember Jackie Robinson.
