Last night on April 15, 2013, the Dodgers celebrated Jackie Robinson Night as they took on the Padres. Unfortunately, the Boys in Blue came up short and lost but the pre-game festivities were pretty awesome. Before the first pitch Don Newcombe, Jackie's wife Rachel Robinson, Jackie's daughter Sharon, and Roy Campanella's son Roy Campanella II and one of Campanella's daughters, were introduced to the Dodger Stadium crowd. Next, actor Harrison Ford, who portrays Branch Rickey in the movie 42 threw out the ceremonial first pitch. Up next Lakers legend and huge Brooklyn Dodger fan, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar got the game going with the phrase, "It's Time for Dodgers Baseball!" Branch Rickey's great-granddaughter, Kelley Jakle, sang God Bless America during the 7th-inning stretch.
Before the game the first 40,000 fans in attendance received a statue of Jackie Robinson, Don Newcombe, and Roy Campanella. You can see the front view picture above. Take a look at a few more pictures below.
Also given away to fans were mini 42 movie posters.
During the first through third inning, Jackie Robinson's daughter Sharon was schedule to sing copies of her book, Jackie Robinson: American Hero, in the right field souvenir tent. I purchased the book and then had it signed by Sharon Robinson. Take a look at the pics.
Even though the Dodgers came up short against the Padres, it was a good night celebrating Jackie Robinson. The SGA statue is very cool and a welcome addition to my Dodgers collection.
True to the Blue!
