Why Royals rookie says it’s ‘a blessing’ to face Yankees on Jackie Robinson Day
Kansas City Royals infielder Tyler Tolbert sat at his locker wearing a “Breaking Barriers” T-shirt in honor of MLB legend Jackie Robinson.
It was a special day for him. This week, Tolbert had his family in town as the Royals faced the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium.
Tolbert, who made his MLB debut this season, grew up in Birmingham, Alabama. He played at the iconic Rickwood Field and was inspired by Robinson as a kid.
Now, Tolbert is living his own baseball dreams and achieving a lifelong goal of playing on Jackie Robinson Day.
“It’s a blessing because a lot of people know this game wasn’t for us back then,” Tolbert said. “But now, we have the opportunity to do it. So it’s just going on that stage and letting everybody know we can do it, too.”
Tolbert owes a lot to Robinson. On April 15, 1947, Robinson broke baseball’s color barrier when he started for the Brooklyn Dodgers at Ebbets Field, a site I visited this week. He was the first Black player to compete in an MLB game.
There were many hurdles to overcome. Robinson endured racism, backlash and hatred as he stepped onto the field.
“He paved the way for all of us,” Tolbert said. “It’s even more special that we are in New York. He didn’t play for the Yankees, but it all originated here in New York City.”
Tolbert visited the Jackie Robinson recreation center Tuesday. He got a chance to learn more about Robinson’s plight towards the majors.
Additionally, Tolbert shared a nice dinner with his father as they discussed the importance of Robinson’s legacy.
“My dad is here and his best friend,” Tolbert said. “It’s really cool to experience Jackie Robinson Day with them.”
Tolbert joined his Royals teammates in wearing No. 42 on Tuesday. The club also has commemorative hats that include Robinson’s signature.
Every MLB team wears Robinson’s number in games played on April 15. The Royals paired the number with their powder blue uniform tops.
“It’s a special day and one of those days you don’t take for granted,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “You try to soak this in every year and every day you are in the big leagues.”
Tolbert still remembers playing catch with his dad in the backyard. Tuesday’s game will be a full circle experience as he shares the moment with those closest to him.
“It was just cool to be in Yankee Stadium,” Tolbert said. “You know, playing in Yankee Stadium or any MLB ballpark, I was just really ecstatic for (my family to see me). But now it means a little bit more, too, especially with Jackie Robinson Day, that they can see me play.”
