Rachel Robinson honored on 100th birthday at All-Star Game
LOS ANGELES — Baseball’s All-Stars gathered on the field before Tuesday night’s game at Dodger Stadium to honor Rachel Robinson on her 100th birthday.
Los Angeles Dodgers star Mookie Betts led the tribute to the widow of Jackie Robinson, speaking to the crowd from the infield grass after the Canadian and U.S. national anthems. Players from both teams fanned out across the grass behind him.
“Today’s a special day. It’s Miss Rachel Robinson’s 100th birthday,” Betts said. “So on the count of three, I want everybody here to say: ‘Happy Birthday, Rachel!’ ”
A video tribute followed on the hexagonal DodgerVision scoreboards in left and right field after the first inning.
Jackie Robinson broke the major league color barrier in 1947 with the Brooklyn Dodgers, who moved to Los Angeles after the 1957 season.
MLB held a discussion of Robinson’s life on Monday.
Jackie Robinson died in 1972 and his No. 42 was retired throughout the major leagues in 1997. There is a statue honoring the Hall of Famer outside Dodger Stadium.
Actor Denzel Washington wore a No. 42 jersey when he spoke to the crowd during the pregame ceremonies.
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