Civil Rights Game makes for memorable night in Cincinnati

The Cardinals lost the game 4-3, but Saturday night was about more than baseball. The Cards and Reds were lucky enough to take part in the Gillette Civil Rights Game that honored the legends of history. Hall of Famer Willie Mays, tennis star Billie Jean King, and entertainer and activist Harry Belafonte were honored before the game as recipients of the MLB Beacon Awards. Hank Aaron, Frank Robinson and Ernie Banks were also at the game to participate in the ceremonies. Mr. Cub threw out the first pitch sporting his Cubs jersey. Laila Ali, the daughter of Muhammad Ali, was included in the celebration too. Four Negro Leaguers from Cincinnati joined the MLB legends in the introductions — Charles “Whip” Davis, Ron “Bunny” Warren, Don “Groundhog” Johnson and Tom “High Pockets” Turner. Chuck Harmon was also honored. He was the first African American to play for the Cincinnati Reds. It was a magical celebration of the past that has made the present possible.

Check out the sights from last night’s game courtesy Al Behrman and Andy Lyons. […]