Every season, MLB recognizes the historic achievements of Hall of Fame second baseman Jackie Robinson by naming April 15 in his honor. This year, the Chicago White Sox will go one better. (Two, actually.)
↵Along with having all of its players wear No. 42 during a 7:10 pm home game against the Los Angels Angels of Anaheim this Friday, the Sox will hold a "Jackie Robinson Day Luncheon & Forum." This private event, to be held from 11:30 am to 1 pm, will feature a panel discussion on Robinson’s impact on both baseball and society at large. Participants will include team chairman Jerry Reinsdorf, GM Ken Williams, Jonathan Eig (author of the book Opening Day: Jackie Robinson’s First Season), and former NL president and current Jackie Robinson Foundation board member Len Coleman.
Also before the aforementioned game against the Angels, look for a special on-field ceremony honoring Jackie Robinson. It will feature a ceremonial first pitch thrown to home plate by Sonya Pankey, Robinson’s granddaughter.