Jackie Robinson #42
Amherst Baseball and Hadley-Amherst Softball players wear #42 on the back of their practice shirts in honor of Jackie Robinson. When Jackie Robinson started at 1st for the Brooklyn Dodgers on April 15, 1947, he became the first Black player in the Major Leagues since they were banned in the 1880s. In the years leading up to his debut, and for his entire career, he played and conducted himself with grace, skill and charisma, winning the World Series and the MVP, being selected repeatedly as an All-Star, and eventually being inducted into the Hall of Fame. Jackie’s #42 is retired by all Major League teams and on one day each year, Jackie Robinson Day, all Major League players wear #42. Jackie Robinson was a great ballplayer and a great American and we are proud to honor his accomplishment and legacy.