The Chicago Cubs will take on the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field on Friday, on Jackie Robinson Day, starting at 8:40 pm ET.
They will do it with their new ace, Marcus Stroman, on the mound, against German Marquez.
Stroman has been vocal in his support for what Robinson did in his playing days: opening the field for hundreds of Black players to have the opportunity to succeed in the Major Leagues.
On April 15, 1947, he defied the voices calling for him not to play in MLB, and made his debut in the majors, with the Brooklyn Dodgers.
In a career that later saw him join the Hall of Fame, Robinson hit .313 with 141 home runs and 761 RBI.
He won one World Series title and one MVP, and went to six All-Star Games.
Stroman Will Try To Honor Robinson On The Mound
Stroman is more than ready to celebrate Robinson’s career and achievements, by taking the ball tonight.
“Marcus Stroman gets the start on Jackie Robinson Day. Here’s a picture of Stroman’s tattoo honoring Jackie Robinson. HAPPY @STR0 DAY!, Cubs Zone tweeted, with a picture of Stro’s tattoo.
Marcus Stroman gets the start on Jackie Robinson Day. Here’s a picture of Stroman’s tattoo honoring Jackie Robinson. 🙏🏼
HAPPY @STR0 DAY! 🙌🏼
(📸: @bymrkoa / @STR0) pic.twitter.com/y3ct0pSPvd
— Cubs Zone ™️ (@CubsZone) April 15, 2022
The tattoo is on Stroman’s calf, and shows a picture of Robinson smiling, with a powerful message: “Only love can do that”.
Out of love for the game, his family, and himself, Robinson went against all odds and completed a highly successful major league career, and he was one of the true greats of his generation: he could hit, he could bunt, he could run like the wind, and he had some power.
Robinson getting on base was a disaster for opposing pitchers, as he had the ability and willingness to steal bases and put some pressure on the hurler.
Stroman deeply respects Robinson and isn’t afraid to show it, will try to honor him tonight with a solid start.
NEXT: Marcus Stroman Already Endearing Himself To Cubs Fans In A Big Way