Dodgers Celebrate Franchise Milestones on April 10

From Jackie Robinson's signing to Vin Scully's absence, key moments in Dodgers history happened on this date.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 11:03pm

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April 10 is a significant day in Los Angeles Dodgers history, marking the signing of Jackie Robinson in 1947 and Vin Scully missing the home opener in 2012. The article also notes the first game played at Dodger Stadium in 1962.

Why it matters

These events highlight the Dodgers' rich history and the franchise's impact on baseball and popular culture. Robinson's signing broke the color barrier, while Scully's absence from the home opener was a rare occurrence for the legendary broadcaster.

The details

On April 10, 1947, Dodgers president Branch Rickey announced the team had purchased Jackie Robinson's contract from the Montreal Royals. Robinson went on to have an outstanding rookie season, winning Rookie of the Year, and played his entire 10-year career with the Dodgers, making six All-Star teams and winning an MVP Award. In 2012, iconic Dodgers broadcaster Vin Scully missed the team's home opener for the first time in 35 years due to a bad cold. The Dodgers defeated the Pittsburgh Pirates 2-1 that day, with Clayton Kershaw pitching seven strong innings. The article also notes that on April 10, 1962, the first game was played at Dodger Stadium, with the Dodgers defeating the Cincinnati Reds.

  • On April 10, 1947, the Dodgers announced they had purchased Jackie Robinson's contract.
  • On April 10, 2012, Vin Scully missed the Dodgers' home opener for the first time in 35 years.
  • On April 10, 1962, the first game was played at Dodger Stadium.

The players

Jackie Robinson

A pioneering baseball player who broke the color barrier when he joined the Dodgers in 1947, going on to have a Hall of Fame career with the team.

Branch Rickey

The Dodgers' president who signed Jackie Robinson, helping to integrate Major League Baseball.

Vin Scully

The legendary Dodgers broadcaster who missed the team's 2012 home opener for the first time in 35 years due to illness, before retiring after the 2016 season.

Clayton Kershaw

The Dodgers' star pitcher who started the 2012 home opener, tossing seven strong innings in a 2-1 win over the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Andre Ethier

The Dodgers outfielder who hit the go-ahead home run in the 8th inning of the 2012 home opener.

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The takeaway

The Dodgers' history is marked by significant events on April 10, from Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier to Vin Scully's rare absence from the home opener. These moments highlight the franchise's impact on baseball and its place in Los Angeles sports lore.