MLB Insider: '42' reminds us diversity is still a major(s) issue

Earlier this month, baseball fans were treated to the release of "42," a well-done film that included gripping scenes of the challenges Jackie Robinson faced as he broke the color barrier.

But the movie was released a few days after it was learned that African-Americans made up only 8.5 percent of Opening Day rosters. Major League Baseball Commissioner Bud Selig recently announced the formation of a 17-member task force to study diversity in the game.

It's time to point out that last summer Selig was asked about progress in this area during an appearance at the RBI (Revitalizing Baseball in the Inner Cities) World Series, which was hosted by the Twins at Target Field.

"We have spent a lot of money on academies," Selig said then. "We have programs like this. I am satisfied [from watching] the minor leagues, watching the draft. I like what I'm seeing. I do think we are getting there."

Last week, he wasn't as optimistic.

"I really think our history is so brilliant when it comes to African-Americans," Selig said. "You think about the late 1940s, the 1950s — wow. And you look at that and you say to yourself, 'Why did it not continue, and what could we do to make sure it does continue?' "

In order for it to continue, it's going to take money. It's going to take patience. And it's going to take managing expectations.

MLB has done well with its national RBI program as well as its Urban Youth Academies. Twins outfielder Aaron Hicks played many games at the first academy, which opened in Compton, Calif., in 2006. He is the fourth player from the academy to reach the majors. Since then, academies have opened in Houston, Philadelphia and New Orleans.

If MLB wants to take the initiative to the next level, building more academies, supporting local leagues and investing in facilities can be part of the solution. Kids should have access to the game. But it will take several years before the work MLB does today will grow the game in the direction officials want it to grow. Can the league be that patient? Can sponsors be that patient?

And it's really up to the kids. As much as MLB — and some of us — might want to see more African-American players, you can't force them to fall in love with baseball. Any effort, however, should be commended.

Central Intelligence

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