Part of the Los Angeles Dodgers celebrating Jackie Robinson Day this year was hosting a “Play It Forward” baseball clinic at the Dodgers Dreamfield located inside Jesse Owens Park.
The clinic was for more than 100 youth baseball players from the Al Wooten Youth Center and Dodgers Dreamteam participants from the Hollywood Indies Little League (H.I.L.L.). They received hands-on instruction from Andre Ethier, Jerry Hairston Jr., Andre Jackson and James Loney, who also helped instill life lessons and reflect on Robinson’s legacy.
“We wouldn’t be here as a current player and former players if Jackie Robinson failed,” Hairston told the youth players. “And that’s something I always think about. What if he failed? He did not.
“He persevered and because he was strong on the field, strong off the field, and represented himself with class and grace, you guys have an opportunity to not only play the great game of baseball, but you have an opportunity to be doctors, lawyers, whatever you want to do in life.”
Ethier, who spent his entire career with the Dodgers, shared how playing for the organization on Jackie Robinson Day came with added significance. The former Dodgers outfielder additionally explained the role Robinson had in paving the way for Ethier’s idol, Ken Griffey Jr.
“I grew up in Phoenix and had a chance to see the player I looked up to play many times. It didn’t hit me until later on when I started learning about Jackie, that Jackie was the reason I was able to watch my favorite player, who was Ken Griffey Jr. I’m thankful that I was able to have a player to want to be like, and that was all given by Jackie himself.”
Jackson attending the baseball clinic was noteworthy in that it came the morning after he allowed four home runs in a loss to the Chicago Cubs. The Dodgers ultimately determined Jackson tipped pitches, but the right-hander used the opportunity to remind the participants of maintaining a positive outlook.
“When I think about Jackie Robinson, I think about two words. I think about belief and gratitude,” Jackson said. “If you watch the game, you saw me give up four home runs. Obviously, I was pretty upset about it. When I think about Jackie Robinson, it’s actually perfect timing.
“I had a bad game. Today, I get to believe in something bigger than myself. I don’t have time to sit here and sulk about my game. I’ve got to move on. So when I move onto today, I think about how do I get back to being confident? I think about believing in your success and your past. Believing in yourself.”
Dodgers visit Jackie Robinson statue
Manager Dave Roberts again led the Dodgers to the Jackie Robinson statue at Dodger Stadium for a moment of remembrance, and for the first time in three-year tradition, they were accompanied by the visiting team.
Chicago Cubs manager David Ross and Roberts addressed the players, and so too did Jason Heyward in powerful message.
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