George C. Wright, Ph.D., president of Prairie View A&M University, was invited to throw out the first pitch at the Houston Astros’ game. The franchise celebrated Jackie Robinson Day and the 70th anniversary of him breaking Major League Baseball’s color barrier.
Wright said it was indeed a pleasure and honor to attend Minute Maid Park for the special event. While speaking at the reception, he mentioned memories of seeing his baseball idols in person, and Robinson’s influence on their careers. “I’m having a nostalgic moment; as a young person growing up in the 1950s and 1960s, baseball is my sport,” said Wright, “I want to thank the Astros for inviting the entire Prairie View family.”
Robinson’s number, 42, is retired throughout the regular season, but is worn on Jackie Robinson Day (April 15) across the league. Wearing his number is a way for all players and on-field personnel to celebrate the Hall of Famer’s legacy. On April 15th, 1947 Robinson started for the Brooklyn Dodgers versus the Boston Braves game at Brooklyn’s Ebbets Field. The same year, he was chosen as the National League Rookie of the Year.