The Baltimore Orioles and the broader Major League Baseball world lost a true icon when the great Frank Robinson passed away February 7 at the age of 83.
A larger-than-life figure, both on and off the field, Robinson was one of the few remaining links to a bygone era of MLB. More than any other sport, baseball defined what was happening around the world. It’s history can be linked to the broader history of the United States.
Having played for the Orioles over the course of six seasons, spanning the late 60s and early 70s, Robinson remains one of the organization’s true shining stars.
The Orioles and their city will now pay tribute to Robinson ahead of an April 6 game against the division-rival New York Yankees at Camden Yards.
“A Celebration of Frank” will begin at 6:15 p.m. at Orioles Park at Camden Yards before the 7:05 p.m. matchup with New York,” Nathan Ruiz of the Baltimore Sun noted. “The event will feature a video tribute to Robinson, who died Feb. 7, as well as appearances and speeches from Orioles greats Brooks Robinson, Jim Palmer and Boog Powell.”
Not only will some of the Orioles’ greatest players be on hand, National Baseball Hall of Fame president Jeff Idelson will make an appearance at the ball yard.
Portions of 33rd Street, where Robinson starred at the old Memorial Stadium, will be renamed Frank Robinson Way.
In many ways, Robinson’s impact in Baltimore and around MLB transcended baseball itself. He was a true civil rights pioneer during his playing days. Both the city and its baseball team will recognize this come April 6.