The Birmingham Barons Celebrate 70th Anniversary of Jackie Robinson Day

By: Hope Finley

Official Major League Baseball
Jackie Robinson Day Logo

April 15, 1947 America's favorite pastime was changed forever.

That was opening day for Major League Baseball and also the first time an African American would play for a major league team.

Ultimately, this would end 80 years of baseball segregation and break the color line barrier that once stood.

 Jackie Robinson began his career playing for the Brooklyn Dodgers, now known as the Los Angeles Dodgers. In 1962, Jackie Robinson was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame and his number 42 jersey was retired.

Jackie Robinson set an example for all young black athletes to follow their dreams and pursue them with dignity, courage and honor at all times.

Many athletes, especially professional baseball players, look to Robinson as a hero.

Pitchers Colton Turner and El'Hajj Muhammad running
 to bullpen to warm up on Jackie Robinson Day 

The first Jackie Robinson Day took place on April 15, 2004 and was celebrated at every major league ball park, with every official, player, coach and manager for both teams would wear the number 42 in honor of Jackie Robinson. It has since become an annual tradition and is celebrated even in the minor leagues.

The Birmingham Barons took part in the celebration this year.

Pitcher El'Hajj Muhammad said even at a young age Jackie Robinson influenced his baseball career.
"Growing up my dad always told me to play the game with some dignity, pride, respect and he would always bring up Jackie Robinson", said Muhammad.

El'Hajj Muhammad signing autographs
before Jackie Robinson Day Game

In 2013, the movie "42" was released in theaters and brought light to all of the issues Robinson faced when becoming the first African American player in Major League Baseball.

The celebration of Jackie Robinson Day is not only significant for baseball, but also for our country. 

Muhammad said, "Its a great way to get people out to the ball park, it makes people aware of what actually went on back then. I think Jackie Robinson Day, when there’s no names on the back of anybody’s jersey, I think that’s a very, very powerful message. This man changed the game of baseball for the better. He brought everybody together".

To find out more about Jackie Robinson and his legacy, you can click here. To catch the Birmingham Barons playing at Regions click here for more information.