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EL1 Trenton Thunder

Manager Franklin To Help In Honoring Jackie Robinson

April 15, 2008 - Eastern League (EL1)
Trenton Thunder News Release


(Trenton, NJ) - The 2007 Eastern League Champion Trenton Thunder, the Double A affiliate of the New York Yankees, have announced that Manager Tony Franklin will be wearing number 42 tonight on the back of his jersey to honor the late Jackie Robinson. The number 42 is "retired" for all Major League and Minor League Baseball teams.

For the second consecutive year, Major League Baseball is celebrating the anniversary of Robinson breaking its color barrier by allowing any player or coach in Major League or Minor League Baseball to wear the Hall of Famer's famous number 42. Today is the 61st anniversary of Robinson's regular season debut with the Brooklyn Dodgers.

"I am so honored to be wearing the number 42 jersey today," Franklin said. "I am almost speechless. I am so thankful that Thunder General Manager Brad Taylor asked me to help commemorate the day. Growing up, I idolized Robinson and wanted to follow in his footsteps of becoming a world class person and athlete. To wear his jersey today is a monumental achievement in my career."

Robinson played 10 seasons with the Dodgers before retiring in 1956. His career BA was .311 and he had 1518 career hits. Robinson made six World Series appearances with the Dodgers and helped Brooklyn win the World Series in 1955. Robinson's contributions to the game of baseball and societal impact of his achievements are now celebrated on an annual basis.

More than 330 players and on-field staff members from all 30 major league teams plan to wear number 42 on Jackie Robinson Day. Nine major league teams will sport entire rosters wearing number 42.

The Thunder host Altoona in the middle game of a three-game series tonight at Waterfront Park. Game time is set for 7:05 p.m. RHP Dan McCutchen (1-1, 1.69) will start for Trenton against Altoona RHP Derek Hankins (0-0, 1.64). To purchase tickets, call 609-394-3300 or order online at www.trentonthunder.com

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