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We’re several weeks into our worldwide attempt to “flatten the curve” and have been offering daily escapes into the sporting events of yesteryear through our “Filling The Void” series. We’ve looked back on the inspiring, mind-boggling and remarkable events as well as the ordinary, daily games we’ve been missing in our lives. We here at The Turf Sports sincerely hope you and your loved ones are staying healthy and being safe through these trying days. We’d also like to take a moment to send out a huge THANK YOU to all of those front-line folks keeping society going – from the medical community to those stocking grocery store shelves, delivering supplies around the country or helping us all fight this virus together in some other essential, invaluable way. You are all heroes.

Today: As we celebrate Jackie Robinson Day, we thought it’d be nice to experience a highlight from his career, in a way that brings us back to a simpler time: on the radio.

When the words “Jackie Robinson” and “World Series” come to mind, there’s usually one play that stands out. You’re thinking of Jackie stealing home in Game 1 of the 1955 World Series because of course, you are.

With Whitey Ford on the mound and Yogi Berra behind the plate, Jackie danced off the bag at third. In a flash he was gone, racing the 90 feet to glory, speeding toward Berra who was awaiting the throw from Ford. And if one swift motion, Jackie slides avoiding the tag, and stealing home in the World Series.

This game is obviously not that game. It’s a year later, and although fans didn’t know it at the time, this would be Jackie Robinson’s last Fall Classic in a Dodger uniform. Well, or any uniform for that matter.

Even though he’s only been in the majors for 10 seasons, Jackie Robinson was 37 coming into this World Series. With his body feeling the strain of another full season, and with his legs not quite as quick as they used to be., Robinson stepped up to the plate against an old friend.

That’s right, Whitey Ford is on the mound, and he has a two-run lead after the first inning after Mickey Mantle took Sal Magile deep. And then, on an 0-2 count to Robinson, Jackie scores the first Dodger run of the series, by parking one off of Ford.

This would be the last home run of Jackie Robinson’s career.

What a way to go out!

Happy Jackie Robinson Day, everyone!