Larry Doby Celebration

On July 5, 1947, Larry Doby made his Major League debut with Cleveland and broke the color barrier in the American League. Doby’s presence in the lineup made history in baseball and was instrumental in Cleveland’s 1948 World Series title. In the Majors, Doby was a seven-time All-Star and two-time AL home run leader.

For a deeper look into Larry Doby’s debut, click here for Anthony Castrovince’s article in the 2022 Cleveland Guardians Yearbook.

The Guardians are proud to celebrate the legacy of Larry Doby on Friday, July 5, 2024 – 77 years after his Major League Debut.

Friday, July 5 – Larry Doby Celebration presented by Nestlé

A night to celebrate, honor and recognize Larry Doby’s legacy in Cleveland.

• 10,000 fans will receive a Larry Doby t-shirt designed by Cleveland’s Sampson the Artist and courtesy of Phantom Fireworks
• National Anthem performed by Jazz Saxophone sensation Mike Williams
• Ceremonial First Pitch from Ariane Kirkpatrick, 2023’s Cleveland Black Professional of the Year
• Game ball delivery by Ethan Holmes, Founder of Holmes Applesauce
• Special giveaways from the Cleveland Strikers
• In-game scoreboard content highlighting Larry Doby and his impact on the game and the City of Cleveland
• Motown-themed Phantom Fireworks show presented by Twisters
• And more!