MLB Expands Relief Programs to Support Negro League Players

OOn Wednesday, the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) and Major League Baseball (MLB) announced an expansion of financial assistance opportunities to support Negro Leagues players.

The initiative will create an annual benefit to financially assist Negro League players who played fewer than four seasons. Although there were other black-only leagues participating, the Negro National League was a professional baseball league established in the 1920s under racism and Jim Crow laws. black players banned to join professional teams with white players. It wasn’t until Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier and stepped onto the Brooklyn Dodgers field in 1947 almost 60 years old after Secret “Gentlemen’s Agreements” Banned Black Players of the games, that the sport would become officially integrated.

“Negro League players are an important part of our sport’s history and have persevered because of their love of the game despite the discrimination and segregation they have faced,” said Commissioner Rob Manfred. “As we prepare to celebrate his legacy this June at Rickwood Field, we are thrilled to have the opportunity to further recognize his contributions.”

MLBPA Executive Director Tony Clark added: “While long overdue, it is gratifying that these former players who meant so much to our game will finally receive a retirement benefit to help them in their old age. This is another example of players using their collective voice to drive progress.”

The financial assistance program for former Negro League players will serve as a supplement to the existing MLB Player Pension Plan and unvested benefits program for retired players.

About 60 Negro Leagues players will watch a game between the New York Giants and the St. Louis Cardinals on June 20 at Rickwood Field, which was the home of the Negro League’s Birmingham Black Barons from 1924 to 1960. Rickwood Field is also important. as it serves as the oldest professional stadium in the U.S.