MLB is showing an increase in Black players in “back-to-back years for the first time in about two decades,” according to Bob Nightengale of USA TODAY. African American players comprise 6.5% of players on opening-day rosters and injured lists, up from 5.7% in 2024 and 6% last year. League officials are “encouraged that developmental programs are starting to produce results.” There also is “optimism there will be gains in the future with just eight Black players older than 32, and 34 of the players 27 years or younger.” Despite areas of gain, there are “six teams who opened the season without a single Black player on their roster, double the total of last year.” Additionally, Atlanta’s Drake Baldwin “remains the only everyday Black catcher,” while there currently are “only 13 Black pitchers in the league” (USA TODAY, 4/10).
MLB sees increase in Black players for second straight season
