MLB and MLBPA Expand Benefits for Living Negro Leagues Players

mlb.com Major League Baseball (MLB) and the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) have announced an expansion of existing financial assistance programs to support living Negro Leagues players. Under this joint initiative, players who played in fewer than four seasons in the Negro Leagues will now receive an annual financial benefit based on their time in the Negro Leagues. A joint committee comprised of both MLB and MLBPA officials will establish the eligibility criteria for the program. “The players of the Negro Leagues are an important part of the history of our sport who persevered because of their love of the game despite the discrimination and segregation they faced,” said Commissioner of Baseball Robert D. Manfred, Jr. “As we prepare to celebrate their legacy in June at Rickwood Field, we are thrilled to have the opportunity to further recognize their contributions. I thank Dan Foster and the MLB Players Alumni Association for their efforts to help us build this joint program.” “Although long overdue, it is gratifying that these former players who meant so much to our game will finally receive a retirement benefit to help them through their senior years,” said MLBPA Executive Director Tony Clark.  “This is another...