The percentage of African Americans now playing in Major League baseball declined from 8.4% in 2006 to 8.2% this year. It is the lowest recorded level in 2 decades, reports ESPN.

That is disappointing to hear.

Growing up in Oakland, CA, we had a proud tradition of African American ballplayers who came from the tough, inner city neighborhoods of Oakland–such as Frank Robinson, Curt Flood and Rickey Henderson, all of whom greatly influenced the game during their careers, on and off the field. That’s why I find it sad to hear that fewer blacks are playing to the game.

However, given today’s societal climate, particularly when it comes to the diminished role of fathers are playing in the African American community, it’s also understandable.

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