Yesterday, Major League Baseball and everyone associated, celebrated the 76th year since Jackie Robinson made his debut with the Brooklyn Dodgers. Not only is the celebration for Robinson's debut, but also the 50th anniversary of the 50th anniversary of the Jackie Robinson Foundation (JRF), which was founded by Jackie’s widow, Rachel, in honor of his life and his mission just a few months after he passed away in October 1972.
“I am thrilled to be celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Jackie Robinson Foundation along with the first year of our new Jackie Robinson Museum,” ; “I thank Major League Baseball, the teams, players and fans for celebrating this legacy on Saturday and throughout the year. On behalf of our family, I want to wish everyone a truly wonderful Jackie Robinson Day.” the 100-year-old Rachel Robinson said in a statement.
(Quotes via MLB.com)
The museum opened last year in NYC and highlights everything that Jackie Robinson stood for as well as his impact on the game everyone cherishes.
As on every other year the MLB has celebrated Jackie Robinson Day, everyone across the league wore number 42 on the back of their jerseys. There's a pride that comes with wearing that special number on their backs, a pride that nobody takes lightly.
Adding to that Dodger blue 42 on their backs, many players across the league took to showing their pride a bit more with their cleats. Players such as Aaron Judge, Manny Machado, Francisco Lindor, and Zach Plesac wore those said cleats.
Other players such as Yasmani Grandal, Jeremy Peña, and Nestor Cortes shared their pride with t-shirts and even chest protectors.
In addition to active major league players showing their love for Robinson, the last player to ever wear the number 42 took to social media to express what April 15 means to him. Adding "One of the greatest honors of my career was wearing 42. Honoring Jackie today and everyday #Jackie42
As everyone sits back and reflects on April 15 each and every year, it is best to remember Jackie for the impact he had on this beautiful game that we all know and love. April 15 will always be a day of remembrance.