Major League Baseball has a complex history when it comes to Black players. Prior to the mid-20th century, Black players were not allowed to compete in Major League Baseball due to the "gentlemen's agreement" that segregated the sport. In 1884, Moses Fleetwood Walker became the first Black player to compete in Major League Baseball when he played for the Toledo Blue Stockings in the American Association. However, his career was short-lived due to the widespread racism and discrimination he faced.

It wasn't until 1947 when Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier by joining the Brooklyn Dodgers, becoming the first Black player to play in Major League Baseball in the modern era. His presence paved the way for other Black players to enter the league, leading to an influx of talented Black athletes who transformed the game.

Black players such as Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, and Roberto Clemente became legends in the sport, breaking records and earning accolades for their exceptional talents. Despite facing racism and discrimination, these players persevered and left a lasting impact on the game of baseball.

The contributions of Black players have helped shape Major League Baseball into the diverse and inclusive sport it is today. The league continues to honor the legacy of these trailblazing athletes through initiatives such as Jackie Robinson Day and the RBI program, which aims to promote baseball participation among underserved youth, particularly Black and Latino communities.