In 2004, MLB established April 15 as Jackie Robinson Day because that was the day he debuted for the Dodgers and broke the league's color barrier in 1947.

MLB chose to celebrate Jackie Robinson Day on April 15 to mark the anniversary of his first game with the Dodgers. Robinson officially broke the color barrier April 15, 1947. On that date, Robinson started at first base and hit second in a 5-3 win over the Boston Braves. Robinson went 0-for-3 with a sacrifice bunt in his first game in the majors.

Kansas City Royals infielder Tyler Tolbert sat at his locker wearing a “Breaking Barriers” T-shirt in honor of MLB legend Jackie Robinson. It was a special day for him. This week, Tolbert had his family in town as the Royals faced the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium.