Frank Robinson
Boys & Girls Clubs Alumni Hall of Fame Member
Baseball Pioneer and Hall of Famer
Breaking Barriers On and Off the Field
When Frank Robinson first moved to Oakland, California, he found more than just a new home—he found a mentor at the Oakland Boys Club who would help shape his future. A staff member took the time to teach young Frank the fundamentals of baseball, providing the guidance and support that would launch one of the most remarkable careers in sports history.
Robinson's talent and determination led him to become the only player in Major League Baseball history to win MVP awards in both the American and National Leagues. In 1966, he achieved the rare Triple Crown, leading the American League in batting average, home runs, and RBIs—a feat accomplished by only a handful of players in baseball history.
But Robinson's greatest achievement may have come in 1975 when he became the first African-American manager in Major League Baseball history with the Cleveland Indians. Throughout his life, he continued to break barriers and create opportunities for others, serving as MLB's Executive Vice President of Baseball Development.
"The Oakland Boys Club staff helped me learn and understand baseball when I first moved to California."
- Frank Robinson
Legendary Achievements
Triple Crown Winner
Won the American League Triple Crown in 1966
MVP in Both Leagues
Only player to win MVP in both AL and NL
First African-American Manager
Broke barriers as MLB's first Black manager
586 Home Runs
Fourth all-time when he retired
Baseball Hall of Fame
Inducted in 1982
MLB Executive
Executive VP of Baseball Development
A Pioneer's Impact
Frank Robinson's journey from the Oakland Boys Club to becoming baseball's first African-American manager exemplifies courage, determination, and the power of mentorship. His groundbreaking achievements opened doors for countless others, while his connection to the Boys Club reminds us that every great journey begins with someone who believes in you.