Jackie Robinson must have been scared as he stepped onto Ebbets Field on April 15, 1947 for the first time, amid threats and unpopularity. Like all pioneers, he probably wondered if he was doing the right thing and likely wondered if he would even survive. That game and all the games that followed put Robinson - the first African-American to play in Major League Baseball - in the books. That's why April 15 is so important.

Robinson paved the way for some of today's greatest players - Barry Larkin, Sammy Sosa, Roberto Alomar, just to name a few. It's hard to imagine baseball without such people or without the acceptance of such players.

Occasionally, we hear a comment or a racial slur that puts one of these fine players down. But, there's no doubt that we have come a long way. Players are no longer subjected to the kind of abuse that Robinson was.

April 15 is recognized as Jackie Robinson Day. After his contributions to the game, he is a true American hero and he deserves the honor.