Cincinnati Reds: Frank Robinson, a Player, a Manager, and a Legend

Frank Robinson, the Manager

Nearly 30 years after Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier as a player, another Robinson broke the color barrier as a manager. In 1975, the Cleveland Indians named Frank Robinson their player/manager, making him the first ever African American manager in MLB history.

In typical fashion, after being named a player/manager for the Cleveland Indians, Frank Robinson hit a home run in his first AB.

Later, Frank Robinson would make history again after being named the manager for the San Francisco Giants in 1981, making him the first ever African American manager in the NL.

The following year, Robinson was inducted in the National Baseball Hall of Fame as a member of the Cincinnati Reds.

Frank Robinson’s managerial career didn’t quite pair up with his playing career, his managerial record is more than 100 games below .500. Still, however, Mr. Robinson’s career and contributions to MLB is nothing short of phenomenal.

With reports now stating that Frank Robinson is in “failing health,” it is unclear what exactly his ailments are. At age 83, however, Robinson can look back and be extremely proud at his accomplishments in the game he’s been a part of for the better part of a half-century.