This week, the MLB and MLB Players Association announced a new initiative that expands financial assistance opportunities for living Negro Leagues players. Previously, annual benefits were only offered to those who played at least four seasons — that requirement has now been removed for former Negro Leagues athletes.
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This move will affect approximately 50 former baseball pros. “The players of the Negro Leagues are an important part of the history of our sport who persevered because of their love of the game despite the discrimination and segregation they faced,” Commissioner Rob Manfred said in a statement.
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The Negro Leagues officially formed in 1920, when racial discrimination and Jim Crow laws prevented Black players from joining the MLB. They eventually folded after Jackie Robinson and other Black athletes integrated baseball. “Although 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 through their senior years,” said MLBPA Executive Director Tony Clark