Jackie Robinson Day is extra special for Miami Marlins’ Dee Gordon

Wednesday was Jackie Robinson Day in ballparks across the country, which meant it was a great day for new Marlins second baseman Dee Gordon.

Having spent his first four seasons in the big leagues with Robinson’s old team, the 26-year-old Gordon gained a special appreciation for the man who broke baseball’s color barrier. It’s part of the reason Gordon has become more involved in MLB’s push to revive baseball in black communities.

Gordon hosted a free baseball camp in his hometown of Avon Park in December, and already has become friendly with the Marlins Reviving Baseball in Innner Cities program.

“I try to help the kids were I’m from just to show them I’m from the same place and I made it to professional baseball and my dad did as well,” said Gordon, whose father Tom was an All-Star relief pitcher and whose half-brother Nick, 19, was drafted fifth overall in the 2014 draft by the Twins.

“More than anything I want to show kids you can do more than just the things you see in front of you.”

Gordon finished Wednesday’s game 2 for 4 with a two-run double.

This story was originally published April 15, 2015 at 10:11 PM with the headline "Jackie Robinson Day is extra special for Miami Marlins’ Dee Gordon."