MLB celebrates Jackie Robinson Day every year on April 15 to commemorate the league’s first African-American player’s debut. All players, managers and coaches wear a number 42 patch on their jerseys.
Robinson, on April 15, 1947, became MLB’s first Black player in the modern era. He debuted for the Brooklyn Dodgers. In 2004, Bud Selig, who was the league’s commissioner, kicked off Jackie Robinson Day celebrations.
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Saturday marks the 50th year anniversary of Robinson’s debut.
“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,” Rachel Robinson, Jackie’s wife, said in a statement.
Jackie Robinson died on October 24, 1972 in North Stamford, Connecticut. He was 53 years old.
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Cause of death:
Robinson died of a heart attack. He had recovered from one in 1968 and had lost the sight of one eye and the partial sight of the other as a result of diabetes.
Wife Rachel Robinson:
Jackie Robinson was married to Rachel Robinson, who is 100 years old now. She is a business leader, civil rights activist, professor and nurse. The got married in 1946.
Children:
Jackie and Rachel Robinson had three children: David Robinson, Jackie Robinson Jr. and Sharon Robinson.
MLB teams:
Robinson played for Kansas City Monarchs in 1945. He then represented the Brooklyn Dodgers from 1947to 1956.
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Position:
He played as Brooklyn Dodgers’ first baseman.
Quotes:
Few of Robinson’s famous quotes are:
“I’m not concerned with your liking or disliking me … all I ask is that you respect me as a human being.”
“A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives.”
“Baseball is like a poker game. Nobody wants to quit when he’s losing; nobody wants you to quit when you’re ahead.”