Celebrating Jackie Robinson Day, Puig makes a friend and a Padre with his parents
By Tab Bamford
Remembering Robinson
Monday is Jackie Robinson Day across Major League Baseball. As we discussed on La Vida Baseball Live on Monday, Robinson was a trailblazer whose impact continues to be significant for Latinos.
Robinson Canó was one of the many who took time to share their perspective of Robinson’s enduring impact on social media.
Minor League Baseball also honored the legacy of Robinson, including the Spokane Indians (Class A short-season affiliate of the Texas Rangers).
Puig your friend
Yasiel Puig made a friend for life during the Mexico Series this weekend. MLB.com’s Jesse Sanchez shared a young fan who caught Puig’s batting gloves in the stands.
Gio’s done with the Guerreros
Kaitlyn McGrath of The Athletic caught up with Gio Gonzalez, who has now faced Vladimir Guerrero Sr. and Jr. to get his thoughts on the family. Not surprisingly, Gonzalez will be happy to avoid either one of them.
Bad Bunny in Tampa
Rays righthander José De León was happy to share a moment – and a signed jersey – with Bad Bunny over the weekend.
Fan Post of the Day
This fan did a terrific job of expressing his appreciation for Robinson’s legacy.
Pro Post of the Day
Gerardo Reyes got the call every prospect dreams about last week and was able to share his major league moment with mom and dad. Reyes earned a win in relief in his major league debut on Saturday.
OTD
1942 – At Sportsman’s Park in St. Louis, Hiram Bithorn becomes the first Puerto Rican to play in major league baseball. The Cubs right-handed pitcher from Santurce makes a relief appearance in the 4 – 2 loss to the Cardinals.
1947 – Jackie Robinson makes his historic debut for the Brooklyn Dodgers, becoming the first African-American to play major league baseball.
1969 – Roberto Clemente‘s first hit of the season is a 1st inning home run onto the street beyond the left field wall at Wrigley Field in Chicago. Clemente, who had been 0-12 to begin the season, took a Joe Niekro fastball deep.
1972 – Oakland’s Reggie Jackson, wearing a fashionable mustache, becomes the first major league player with facial hair since Frenchy Bordagaray in 1936.
1987 – Juan Nieves throws the first no-hitter in Milwaukee Brewers history, winning 7-0 against the Baltimore Orioles.
2008 – Seattle’s José López ties a unique major league record in the Mariners’ 11-6 win over the Royals. López becomes the 12th player in big league history to hit three sacrifice flies in one game.
Happy Birthday!
Adeiny Hechavarría (b. 1989)
Yoel Hernández (b. 1980)
Reynaldo García (b. 1974)
Ricky Otero (b. 1972)
Leo Posada (b. 1936)