Biography

Robinson became the first African-American to manage in the major leagues in 1975.

Played for 1961 National League Champion Cincinnati Reds team. Played for 1966 and 1970 World Series Champion Baltimore Orioles teams. Played for 1969 and 1971 American League Champion Baltimore Orioles teams.

Awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President George W. Bush on 9 November 2005. Other recipients were Muhammad Ali, Gen. Richard Myers, Paul Rusesabagina, Carol Burnett, Andy Griffith, Aretha Franklin, Vint Cerf and his Internet codeveloper Robert Kahn, Jack Nicklaus, Alan Greenspan, and former congressman G.V. "Sonny" Montgomery.

Manager of the American League's Cleveland Indians (1975-1976) and Baltimore Orioles (1988-1991); and the National League's San Francisco Giants (1981-1984), and Montreal Expos/Washington Nationals (2002-2004/2005-2006).

Played for the National League's Cincinnati Reds (1956-1965) and Los Angeles Dodgers (1972); and for the American League's Baltimore Orioles (1966-1971), California Angels (1973-1974), and Cleveland Indians (1974-1976).

Pitchers did me a favor when they knocked me down. It made me more determined. I wouldn't let that pitcher get me out. They say you can't hit if you're on your back. But I didn't hit on my back. I got up.

I don't see anyone playing in the major leagues today who combines both the talent and the intensity that I had. I always tried to do the best. I knew I couldn't always be the best, but I tried to be. - at his Hall of Fame induction, 1982

I don't see why you reporters keep confusing Brooks [Robinson] and me. Can't you see that we wear different numbers?

If I had one wish in the world today, it would be that Jackie Robinson could be here to see this happen. - at his 1974 press conference on being the first black manager

I had no trouble communicating, the players just didn't like what I had to say.