“Havana Hardball”—Jackie Robinson in Cuba 1947

HavanaHardballIn February 1947, the most memorable season in the history of the Cuban League finished with a dramatic series win by Almendares against its rival Habana. As the celebration spread through the streets of Havana and across Cuba, the Brooklyn Dodgersand a minor leaguer named Jackie Robinsonwere beginning spring training on the island.

Robinson was two months away from making his major league debut in Brooklyn. To avoid racism and harassment from the crowds in Florida during this critical time, the Dodgers relocated their spring training to Cuba.

It was also during this time that Major League Baseball was trying to bring the “outlaw” Cuban League under the control of organized baseball. As the Cubans fought to stay independent, Robinson worked to earn a roster spot on the Dodgers.

In “Havana Hardball,” veteran journalist César Brioso brings together a rich mix of worlds as the heyday of Latino baseball converged with one of the most socially meaningful events in American history.

Special Day, Special Time. Join us on Saturday, November 7th at 5:00pm for “Havana Hardball.” RSVP required to attend.

Autographed and personalized copies of “Havana Hardball” will be available for purchase. The author will sign only books purchased in the Clubhouse.

César Brioso is a digital producer and former baseball editor for “USA TODAY Sports.” In his 25 years as a sports journalist, he has written for the “Miami Herald” and the “South Florida Sun-Sentinel.”

 











When: Sat., Nov. 7, 2015 at 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Where: Bergino Baseball Clubhouse
67 E. 11th St.

Price: Free
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HavanaHardballIn February 1947, the most memorable season in the history of the Cuban League finished with a dramatic series win by Almendares against its rival Habana. As the celebration spread through the streets of Havana and across Cuba, the Brooklyn Dodgersand a minor leaguer named Jackie Robinsonwere beginning spring training on the island.

Robinson was two months away from making his major league debut in Brooklyn. To avoid racism and harassment from the crowds in Florida during this critical time, the Dodgers relocated their spring training to Cuba.

It was also during this time that Major League Baseball was trying to bring the “outlaw” Cuban League under the control of organized baseball. As the Cubans fought to stay independent, Robinson worked to earn a roster spot on the Dodgers.

In “Havana Hardball,” veteran journalist César Brioso brings together a rich mix of worlds as the heyday of Latino baseball converged with one of the most socially meaningful events in American history.

Special Day, Special Time. Join us on Saturday, November 7th at 5:00pm for “Havana Hardball.” RSVP required to attend.

Autographed and personalized copies of “Havana Hardball” will be available for purchase. The author will sign only books purchased in the Clubhouse.

César Brioso is a digital producer and former baseball editor for “USA TODAY Sports.” In his 25 years as a sports journalist, he has written for the “Miami Herald” and the “South Florida Sun-Sentinel.”

 

Buy tickets/get more info now