Posted By:
mike rothsteinIt was a tough road for Robinson. I saw a really good documentary on the Dodgers on HBO - the Lords of Flatbush.
They referenced Robinson's trade to the Giants since O'Malley felt he was getting a bit too outspoken and perhaps militant - the times were changing.
To add - he served in the Army from '42-44 and was court-martialed for insubordination - he refused to sit in the back of the bus is what I recollect? He was acquitted - just imagine having something in your record for that type of thing?
Also - besides the racism - pitchers were "head hunting" for him. Wasn't it Robinson who was the first to wear a protective type of hat while hitting?
Mr Robinson died way too young - very sad.