You might have been surprised by the Astros wearing the legendary Eagles jerseys this Saturday. The confusion must have increased when you found out that the Royals were wearing Monarch jerseys,
So why are they wearing jerseys from the legendary era? To raise awareness? To pay respect? Or is it just a celebratory event?
The answer is all of the above, adding on some more important factors as well.
Why Were Astros Wearing Eagles Jersey on Saturday?
On Saturday, September 16, 2023, the Royals hosted their annual “Salute to the Negro Leagues” night at Kauffman Stadium, Kansas City. The game was played against Houston Astros, and both teams donned jerseys to salute the Negro Leagues. Thus, the Astros wore 1950 Houston Eagles threads while the Royals donned the 1945 Kansas City Monarchs jerseys.
Bob Kendrick, the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum President, stated that the annual “Salute to the Negro Leagues” event helps educate and pay tribute to those who played in the league. It also lends a hue helping hand to raise funds and spread awareness for the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, located in Kansas City.
Items that were worn in the games, such as jerseys, helmets, and ballcaps, are auctioned off after the game, and all the proceeds go directly to the museum.
According to Kendrick, Major League teams acknowledge the significance of the Negro Leagues through this game. And it helps to raise awareness among baseball fans about the history of the Negro Leagues.
So, did you catch the match? Many baseball fans have commented that the jerseys make the players look much more mature, and the vintage style definitely needs to make a comeback.
Are you of the same opinion? Tell us in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with your baseball head group.