More Than a Ballplayer: Mookie Betts Fights for Black Inclusion in MLB

We should never forget that athletes’ only true obligation is to excel at their craft. When they choose to use their talent and platform to make the world a better place, that’s not just commendable — it’s a gift and a blessing.

Mookie Betts is not only a blessing to Major League Baseball and the Los Angeles Dodgers but also a proactive advocate for increasing Black representation in the sport.

Often, the league boasts of being diverse when, in reality, the number of Black American players in the league has significantly declined. In the 1990s, Black players comprised approximately 20% of MLB rosters; today, that number has dwindled to around 6%.

Betts has not shied away from this glaring omission. Instead, he has openly discussed the challenges contributing to this decline, notably the high costs associated with youth baseball, which can deter participation from underrepresented communities.

And he is not just talk. At the 2022 All-Star Game, he wore a T-shirt stating, “We Need More Black People at the Stadium,” highlighting the importance of inclusivity within the sport. He has expressed a desire to see increased Black representation not only on the field but also in managerial and executive roles, emphasizing the need for diversity throughout all levels of baseball.

Being socially aware isn’t just about addressing the issues. It also requires sharing a message of change that can reach a vast audience — specifically young people. To do this, Betts launched a YouTube channel to share his experiences and connect with fans, aiming to inspire young athletes from diverse backgrounds. Additionally, he has been involved in producing a film focused on the life of Jackie Robinson, further demonstrating his commitment to honoring and continuing the legacy of Black pioneers in baseball.

Still, the work for advocacy is often a tightrope. In 2019, while with the Boston Red Sox, Betts refused to visit the White House during Donald Trump’s first presidential term. In April, he made a different decision and attended with the Dodgers.

“I made it about me,” Betts told the Athletic about not going in 2019. “This is not about me. This is about the Dodgers…Me not being there for them at that time, it was very selfish.”

While Betts’ decision has sparked some criticism, his commitment to driving positive change in Major League Baseball is undeniable. iHs efforts serve as a model for how sports figures can contribute to social progress both within and beyond their professional arenas.