I didn't write about yesterday's unveiling of the Jackie Robinson Rotunda at Citi Field for Newsday. Jim Baumbach took care of that for us, and wrote a fine story. But I did get re-introduced to Mrs. Robinson, and during last night's Mets game, I spent a few minutes in the Robinson family's luxury box. Sharon Robinson, Jackie and Rachel's daughter, also attended.
From watching Mrs. Robinson operate _ participating in the pre-game ceremony, going on the Mets' SNY broadcast, entertaining guests in the box _ you'd guess that she was closer to 65 than her actual 85. Her energy level is remarkable. In the fifth inning, as people prepared to leave and bid her a good night, she asked, out of concern, "How are you getting home?"
The nature of my job calls for me to interview famous, accomplished people and not be fazed by the assignment. But meeting with Mrs. Robinson (this photo, with Mike Cameron, is from a few years ago) carries a different sensation. How can you not be blown away what she and Jackie endured? And then, to think that Rachel Robinson has dedicated her last 35-plus years, since Jackie's passing, to a foundation in Jackie's name. They send minority students to college, a most simple, elegant mission dedicated to giving more opportunities to more youngsters.
Since September 11, 2001, I have been very cognizant of using the word "hero" in writing about sports. But Mrs. Robinson is a true hero, in my mind. For serving as her husband's partner as he tried to change the world, and for guiding the Foundation to help so many young scholars.
The people we discuss day-to-day on this blog, from Bud Selig to George "Mr. Impeccable" Mitchell to Don Fehr to the owners, general managers, managers and players, let us down so very often. So consider April 15 baseball's annual Thanksgiving. We get to thank Mrs. Robinson for all that she and Jackie have done, and all that they continue to do.
Comments (10)
I have had the pleasure of meeting Ms. Robinson also. It was just after Vince Coleman said "I don't know nothing about no Jackie Robinson" in 1991. In response, Rachel Robinson said, "I hope somehow he'll learn and be embarrassed by his own ignorance."
As an aside, Padres pitcher Chris Young wrote his senior thesis on newspaper treatment of the arrival of JR in professional baseball.
Happy 1st anniversaryl.
Very intuitive comments by Vince Coleman. I wonder if today's athlete has any sense of appreciation or comprehension of what opportunities Jackie Robinson's efforts and courage afforded them??
Ken, the reasons African-Americans are not playing baseball is beacuse they are are playing football and basketball. Plus the pace of the game is slower compare to football and basketball.
Yes, Rachel Robinson is woman of style and grace...As an old Dodger fan, I still have fond memories of Jackie Robinson stealing home in the World Series with Yogi Berra jumping up and down protesting that he was out.
Fine words about Rachel Robinson.We should all carry ourselves with such dignity.
Rachel Robinson is a class act and Jackie was a truly great man and an outstanding and proud American. As an American, I still find it difficult embarrasing to read and listen to stories about the terrible treatment he received.
Inner city baseball has somewhat disintegrated. If MLB could provide seed money to reestablish outside youth leagues and junior high and high school programs, it would go a long way toward reestablishing the game among African-American youth. Maybe a pilot program in four or five cities is in order. I am sure MLB could find sponsors willign to pony up some of the financial backing that would be necessary. Many of the inner city fields are a disgrace and equipment is lacking. It would be a start.
We could do all those programs, but ....
What would a teen athlete prefer - riding a bus in the minor leagues learning your craft or playing in the NFL or NBA without the intership period?
Also, since MLB wants to cut costs, they are hoping that colleges take part of the place of the minor leagues. If MLB emphasizes colleg players, there are even less African-American players that will be seen! (And as a non-revenue sport, it receives few scholarships and almost zero full rides - how can it compete with basketball and football?)
Pick a hero?
Here's who I wont pick. Jose Reyes. I mean on Jackie Robinson night, he wears his # and does something that I'm sure Jackie Robinson rarely did. Loaf. As usual.
The guy has proven over and over and over again that he cares more about stylin and profiling than winning. Yesterday he hit a triple that probably would have been an inside the park HR if he would have ran out of the box hard. As a Mets fan I was thrilled he was stranded at 3rd and did not score. I was hoping the Mets would lose by 1.
From Timo Perez to last years collapse, this franchise just doesn't learn. And Willie never takes any action. It's time he benched Reyes not for a game, for a series. Make it a public issue. Had the Mets hustled every game last year, they would have won the division litterally running away.
We need more players like John Stearns, Rex Hudler, Andy Fox and Pete Rose.
Richie,
How many players in MLB are even capable of attaining a triple on a batted ball to left field? I can count them on one hand.
More players like Andy Fox and less like Jose Reyes?
C'mon.
Jim, I'm not doubting Reyes talent. I'm doubting his heart. I'll never forget the 2nd to last day of the season when he didn't even get out of the batters box. Andy Fox couldn't do anything that Reyes can do. But he hustled. Something Reyes does only when he feels like it. Which sadly, doesn't occur to often anymore.