Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier when he became the first African-American to play baseball in the major leagues in 1947. His impact on both baseball and society is immeasurable; his example has inspired athletes around the world who face racial prejudice. Despite endless praise, Robinson’s influence extended far beyond sports. He was one of the most important figures of the twentieth century.
Why are the warriors wearing 42
Players from the Phillies and Dodgers wear Robinson’s number 42 during a ceremony to celebrate his life. The Warriors Wearing 42 is a tribute to Jackie Robinson and his lasting impact on baseball and society.
“It is a great privilege for me to have been invited to be a part of this special day honoring the memory of Jackie Robinson,” said Hall-of-Famer Hank Aaron. “I was proud to wear his number on my back during my career and I am so pleased other players around the game are continuing the tradition.”
What does the number “42” mean in baseball and how did it come about?
The number is a tribute to Robinson’s legacy but also serves as a reminder of the countless African-American men who broke barriers in baseball. It was not always 42; it began with 15 players, including Robinson, wearing 42 on their jerseys in 1997.
“There are more than 2,000 living Hall of Famers,” said Baseball Hall of Fame president Jeff Idelson. “But only one wore the number 42. It was Jackie Robinson’s wish that someday every player should wear his number, not out of obligation or duty, but as a tribute to what he meant to all of us.”
Some consider baseball to be America’s pastime. Yet, today’s game is much different from Robinson’s era. In 1947, baseball was segregated and African-American players were not allowed to play in the major leagues. The color barrier was broken when Branch Rickey of the Brooklyn Dodgers signed Jackie Robinson to a minor league contract in 1946.
Why is Jackie Robinson’s number 42 significant?
After a strong spring training and early season performance by Robinson, Rickey felt comfortable with his decision to break the color barrier and called Robinson up to the Dodgers. On April 15, 1947, Robinson made his major league debut in Ebbets Field against the Boston Braves.
Robinson finished that year batting .297 with 12 home runs while leading the league in stolen bases.
In 1997, all professional baseball players were asked to wear Robinson’s number 42 on April 15, Jackie Robinson Day. That year, all major leaguers complied with the request and also wore the number on September 11 as a tribute to those who perished during the terrorist attacks of 9/11.
In 2009, every player in the major leagues donned number 42 on April 15 to honor Robinson’s pioneering spirit. Today, all Hall of Fame players are allowed to wear the number 42 on their plaques, which forever immortalizes their legacy.
Who are some other players who have worn the number 42?
Many other players have worn number 42 including Frank Robinson, Hank Aaron, Roberto Clemente, Derek Jeter, Mariano Rivera, Ichiro Suzuki, and David Ortiz.
“It is a great privilege for me to have been invited to be a part of this special day honoring the memory of Jackie Robinson,” said Hall-of-Famer Hank Aaron. “I was proud to wear his number on my back during my career and I am so pleased other players around the game are continuing the tradition.”
It is now common for players to wear the number 42 on their jersey sleeves or as part of their batting helmet design. Robinson’s number will also be extended to future Hall of Famers with permission from his widow, Rachel Robinson.
“This has always been my dad’s day and it means so much that all these players are wearing 42,”
What are some examples of players currently wearing #42 for this reason?
There are many players to wear #42 on their jerseys as a tribute to Jackie Robinson. Some examples include:
- Daisuke Matsuzaka, Boston Red Sox
- Ronny Paulino, Pittsburgh Pirates
- Travis Snider, Toronto Blue Jays
- Josh Beckett, Los Angeles Dodgers
Some players also wear 42 on their batting helmets.
Conclusion
Jackie Robinson is nothing short of a legend. He is often compared with men who changed society for the better, such as Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, or Abraham Lincoln. Above all, his enduring legacy is that of a man who fought bravely against segregation and racism. In short, he made sports better for everyone.
