Tribute to Jackie Robinson

On April 15, 1947, Jackie Robinson made his historic debut for the Brooklyn Dodgers, becoming the first African American to play major league baseball in the 20th century. He went on to win the Rookie of the Year Award that season. Jackie Robinson burst onto the scene in 1947, breaking baseball's color barrier and bringing the Negro leagues' electrifying style of play to the majors. He quickly became baseball's top drawing card and a symbol of hope to millions of Americans. With Robinson as the catalyst, the Dodgers won six pennants in his 10 seasons. He dominated games on the base paths, stealing home 19 times while riling opposing pitchers with his daring baserunning style. Robinson was named National League MVP in 1949, leading the loop in hitting (.342) and steals (37), while knocking in 124 runs.

Branch Rickey believed in Jackie Robinson. After a mediocre career as a player and manager, Branch Rickey spent half a century in the front office as baseball's greatest visionary executive. With the St. Louis Cardinals in the 1920s and '30s, Rickey invented the modern farm system, promoting a new way of training and developing players. Later with the Brooklyn Dodgers, he pioneered the utilization of baseball statistics. In 1945, he became the first executive to break baseball's color line when he signed Jackie Robinson, who became the major leagues' first African-American player in the 20th century.

This Sunday, April 15, 2007, marks the 60th anniversary of Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier in the national pastime. More than 200 Major League Baseball players will wear No. 42 to commemorate the historic debut of Jackie Robinson.

Rescue Rick the Grass Cut Man will wear No. 42 on his cape today as a tribute to Jackie Robinson. Also, Rescue Rick the Grass Cut Man will cut 42 blades of grass today with grass shears to honor Jackie Robinson.

Rescue Rick the Grass Cut Man is a visionary yard safety awareness advocate.

Richard T. Mudrinich
Rescue Rick the Grass Cut Man
http://www.rescuerick.com
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