Editorials

Dodgers: Mookie Betts, Dustin May, and More Reflect on Jackie Robinson

On what is usually an incredible day for America’s pastime, the legacy of Jackie Robinson carries on even if games are not… 

April 15, 1947 at Ebbets Field made history when a kid out of UCLA took the field for the Brooklyn Dodgers. 73 years later, the name Jack Roosevelt Robinson is synonymous with excellence. Moreover, it’s synonymous with persistence. 



On the 73rd anniversary of Robinson breaking the color barrier, Dodgers players reflected on the legend.

Importantly, Mookie Betts was among the many current LA players to speak about what Jackie and his iconic number 42 means to them.

Wearing the number 42 means the world… you know everything that Jackie went through to pave the way for myself and other black players. Now that I’m in a Dodgers’ jersey, I think it means even more to me to know that I’m actually a part of the organization that he actually wore the number is a special thing to me and I’ll never forget it.

Additionally, players including Dustin May, Will Smith, Gavin Lux, and David Price who say he is proud to put on Jackie’s number 42 each April 15th.

Enter to Win a 42 Snapback Cap!

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Thankfully we’re not done here. Obviously that video package was put together fairly early in spring training (remember that?). As an bonus to celebrate Jackie Robinson day, Mookie Betts joined Dodgers’ play-by-play man Joe Davis to further chat about the Brooklyn legend.

Davis mentions how much more special and meaningful Jackie Robinson day is for the Dodgers organization and Betts shared in that awe.

It’s a special thing to be wearing his number in general, but to be wearing that same jersey … the same Dodger blue it just means more — it’s kind of a feeling inside, something you can’t necessarily explain.

Mookie’s mom even agreed that the outfielder looks good in blue.

Of course when and how and if Betts ever plays a game as a Dodger is a whole other ballpark of conversation.

But for now, do your part and honor the legendary Jackie Robinson. Be nice to your fellow man as we all battle and manage through this dark time in history… one day we’ll be back at the ballpark wearing our Dodger blue again.

NEXT: Dave Roberts Has Jackie Robinson Day Plans

Clint Pasillas

Clint Pasillas has been writing, blogging, and podcasting about the Los Angeles Dodgers since 2008. Under Clint's leadership as the Lead Editor, Dodgers Nation has grown into one of the most read baseball sites in the world with millions of unique visitors per month. Find him online on Twitter/X or his YouTube channel!

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