The East-West Hall of Fame Classic, which brings together Major League legends, was the perfect opportunity for Cuban pitcher José Ariel Contreras to return to the mound.
In front of hundreds of fans and former Major League players gathered at Doubleday Field, the stadium that houses the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York, these figures had their day of recognition for the talent they brought to the field.
"They represented the Kings and the Barons, and there were Elite Giants and American Giants," was MLB's description to summarize the meeting.
According to this website, tickets sold out to see the thirty former players who gathered at the New York stadium.
Contreras, besides pitching, took the opportunity to sign autographs for many fans who attended the baseball facility, according to Daniel de Malas, CEO of Swing Completo, the only correspondent present at the event.
Of all those present as former players, Contreras was the only Cuban invited to the event.
Contreras made his debut in Major League Baseball in 2003 with the New York Yankees. He also played for the Chicago White Sox, the Colorado Rockies, the Philadelphia Phillies, and the Pittsburgh Pirates. He was part of the Major League All-Star Team in 2006.
Former Minor League baseball player Mo'ne Davis pointed out about the event, "It is a great honor." Sometimes I feel a little nervous, but just to be here to honor the Negro Leagues, to honor those who came before me, to honor those who paved the way for me to practice this sport, it feels amazing.
The East-West Hall of Fame Classic: a tribute to the Negro Leagues All-Star Game, honored the East-West Negro Leagues All-Star Game that began in 1933 at Chicago's Comiskey Park and was played annually until 1962, including several years featuring multiple games.
"The East-West All-Star Game was the annual showcase of the Negro Leagues, and we have the privilege of being able to honor the legacy of those stars during Memorial Day weekend in Cooperstown, as part of the celebration of Black baseball in the Hall of Fame," said Carsten Charles Sabathia, former pitcher for the New York Yankees.
When it first opened its doors on June 12, 1939, the Hall of Fame has remained as a symbol of the deepest individual honor bestowed upon a baseball player.
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