Anyone who has followed baseball at all can understand the significance of the number 42. 

Each year, the MLB holds Jackie Day in honor of Jackie Robinson. 

Jackie Robinson was the first African-American player in professional baseball when he inked a contract with the Brooklyn Dodgers on April 15, 1947.

Because of the work of Robinson and his influence in the sport of baseball, his number, 42, is the only number retired through the MLB. 

No one is allowed to wear the number 42, except on Jackie Day on April 15. On this day, all on-field personnel wear the number 42.

The Civil Rights Game, entering its tenth season, was created to honor Robinson’s legacy along with the countless other trailblazers who sparked a revolution of change.

In 2013, Warner Brothers released 42 as a tribute, not only to Robinson but to chronicle the path the Dodgers manager Branch Rickey took.

Both Robinson and Rickey were ridiculed by fans, press and the organization itself for the move. However, Rickey stayed his course.

In the movie, Rickey is played by Harrison Ford. Ford has played a great many roles over the years.

During the initial season, Robinson had to display extreme courage to not react like a mad-man when he was provoked by people.

As we enjoy the beginning of the MLB season, let us take a page from Robinson’s book. 

When someone pushes the button, have the courage to get over it and move on.