Hank Greenberg, 1939 - Available
Image Source: Unknown, but believed to be in the public domain.
Image Subject: Hank Greenberg in the Tiger dugout in 1939 shouldering six bats.
Fun Fact:Late in his career, Hank Greenberg was playing first base for the Pittsburgh Pirates when rookie Jackie Robinson arrived at Pittsburgh’s Forbes Field with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947. Robinson was enduring constant racial abuse from opposing players and fans as he broke baseball's color barrier that year.
During a game on May 15, 1947, Robinson laid down a perfect bunt and collided with Greenberg who was playing first base for the Pirates. The following inning, Greenberg was walked and, arriving at first base asked Robinson if he had been hurt in the earlier collision. Robinson told Greenberg he was fine, at which point Greenberg said to Robinson, “Don’t pay any attention to these guys who are trying to make it hard for you. Stick in there. You’re doing fine. Keep your chin up.” Following the game, the New York Times asked Robinson about the collision and what Greenberg said to him afterwards. Jackie told them, “Class tells. It sticks out all over Mr. Greenberg.”
Years later, Robinson recalled Greenberg's kindness as one of the few moments of genuine support he received from an opposing player during that difficult first season. Greenberg's gesture was brief, but it reflected the respect one pioneer showed another. In a game that often celebrates home runs and championships, it remains one of baseball's quietest and most meaningful acts of sportsmanship in baseball.
Painting Detail: Printed on 13” x 19” canvas and painted using Schmincke Mussini and Marshall’s oil paints. Finer details, like the Centennial patch on his uniform, were made using Prismacolor pencils.
Acknowledgement: Thanks to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency for their retelling of the ‘impact’ of the collision between Jackie Robinson and Hank Greenberg.