How the Debut Was Covered

How some media covered Jackie Robinson’s debut with the Brooklyn Dodgers on April 15, 1947:

The Brooklyn Dodgers, still without a permanent leader, found an adequate one for their opener yesterday when they grouped themselves behind Pete Reiser, their winged-footed outfielder, who encircled the Boston Braves with as much ease as he did the bases.

Reiser scored three runs and drove in two more as Brooklyn staged a snappy world premiere with the kind cooperation of the Bostonians. The score was 5 to 3, and it was Reiser who added up the totals.

A solemn crowd of 26,623 customers looked on, none of whom could be accused of relationship to the normal Ebbets Field fan who is frequently guilty of conduct unbecoming to the other boroughs. Both teams were politely cheered when the lineups were announced and John Cashmore, Brooklyn Borough President, was given a timid reception when he threw out the first ball.

The game was played in an atmosphere of stillness interrupted only by the patter of Reiser’s feet.

A number of observers had been attracted by the presence of Jackie Robinson, Brooklyn’s Negro first baseman, but as the innings passed it was all any one could do to keep their eyes on Reiser.

Robinson fielded his position admirably, but was held hitless in three attempts. He rapped into a double play in the fifth with runners on first and third.