Heyward, Russell honored to be among Cubs' 1st black players in WS
In 19 years with the Chicago Cubs, Ernie Banks didn't play a single World Series game. Billy Williams never played in a Fall Classic, either, during his 16 seasons on the North Side. Ditto for Ferguson Jenkins.
As it happens, no black players have ever taken for the field for the Cubs in the World Series because, in 1945 - the last time they won the pennant - African-Americans weren't allowed in Major League Baseball. That changes Tuesday night.
"I just feel like a lot of people paved the way for us to be in this position now," Cubs right fielder Jason Heyward told Jesse Spector of the Sporting News on Monday. "A lot of people broke a lot of barriers, just for the love of the game, and we’re just trying to bring people together and enjoy it. ...
"It's a humbling experience all the way around, to be in the World Series. But to be a first like that, it’s a unique first."
Dexter Fowler, as Chicago's trusted leadoff man, will technically be the Cubs' first black player to appear in a World Series game when he steps into the box at Progressive Field. He was equally floored by the distinction.
"Ernie's probably looking down at us right now with a smile on his face," said Fowler. "It takes a special person to do that, I always say about the whole Jackie Robinson thing. Obviously, times have changed, but I still feel the same way. It's an awesome opportunity, and I won't take it lightly."
Addison Russell, the 22-year-old shortstop who went deep in Games 4 and 5 of the National League Championship Series, said the honor would be particularly meaningful to his family.
"I think it’s a huge accomplishment," Russell said. "To be in this situation is a joy in itself, but to have that, and hopefully be in the record books for something spectacular like that, that’s going to be huge, not only for me, but for my family. … It's very humbling and honoring to be here. The fact that you’ve got the first African-Americans to set foot on this baseball soil in MLB, to finally be here, I think we’ve come a long way."