How the Debut Was Covered

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

The name of the new Brooklyn manager was of comparatively small interest in Flatbush today. Just as long as Pete Reiser can hit the ball and scamper around the bases as he did in the opening game what difference does it make who battles the umpires!

Potentially, the best ball player in the business, Pistol Pete could even mean a pennant if he could escape injury and play every day. He’s that good. Fitting example of a healthy Reiser’s unestimable value was provided in the glorious inaugural triumph over the Braves.

(Robinson not mentioned in story)