Last week the Los Angeles Dodgers celebrated the 75th anniversary of Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier with a 3-1 win over the Cincinnati Reds.
Prior to the game, manager Dave Roberts gathered the team, front office members and other personnel in front of Robinson’s statue in the center field plaza of Dodger Stadium. Roberts and the Dodgers were joined by Jackie’s son, David Robinson, and Jackie Robinson Foundation scholars.
Roberts briefly addressed the group before turning the floor over to David, who highlighted Jackie’s plight and everlasting legacy, while also calling for continued work toward reaching equality.
Among the other special guests on hand at Dodger Stadium for Jackie Robinson Day was two-time Oscar winning actor and film director Denzel Washington. He spoke to the Dodgers clubhouse before the game and shared several stories.
Washington noted he grew up a New York Yankees fan and idolized Elston Howard. However, midway through his speech, Washington took off his Yankees cap and replaced it with a Dodgers one.
Denzel Washington stops by the Dodger clubhouse on Jackie Robinson Day. Watch the full feature now on https://t.co/ddAWW1G6J7. pic.twitter.com/jz7HrdmeB3
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) April 19, 2022
Washington urged the Dodgers to use their “gift” to make a positive impact on others. Washington’s son, Malcolm, also addressed the team.
After his moving message, Washington took the time to speak individually with players and coaches, including Mookie Betts, Trea Turner, Julio Urias and Clayton Kershaw.
Price, Roberts among Dodgers who made donations for Jackie Robinson Day
The Players Alliance, a non-profit started by active and retired professional baseball players, announced commitments by players, coaches and staff to donate their game-day salary in recognition of the 75th Anniversary of Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier.
Among those who pledged to donate their full or partial game-day salary were David Price, Lorenzo Cain, Jason Heyward, Aaron Hicks and Mike Moustakas. Roberts also made a donation to the Players Alliance.
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