This Jackie Robinson Day was different.
Since 2004, April 15 has been a day to remember Robinson, the trailblazing Hall of Famer who integrated MLB in 1947.
Last month, however, the Department of Defense deleted a story on its website highlighting Robinson’s military service as part of President Donald Trump’s efforts to roll back mentions of diversity, equity and inclusion. Twenty minutes after the page was taken down, it was restored.
‘‘It’s very important just to acknowledge all the things he did,’’ White Sox outfielder Michael A. Taylor said Tuesday. ‘‘He wasn’t just a ballplayer; he was a great man and served our country. It’s really important to remember all that he did because it was more than just on the field.’’
Few look at the scope of what Robinson fought for and the backlash he endured. He initially wasn’t accepted as a major-leaguer and faced jeering from crowds, teammates and foes alike.
Still, he persevered and remained steadfast in his mission to play in the majors. He became a symbol of integration and was far more than a regular player. His Hall of Fame legacy of being a seven-time All-Star, the National League MVP in 1949 and a World Series champion in 1955 speaks for itself.
‘‘I didn’t follow him as closely on the field as I did off the field because what he did off the field is so much more than what he was doing on the field,’’ Sox outfielder Greg Jones said. ‘‘That’s where I took my pride in getting to know Jackie.’’
Jones was taking part in his first Jackie Robinson Day as a player. He said he learned about Robinson as a kid.
As part of the Sox’ Jackie Robinson Day programming, manager Will Venable donated books about Robinson — written by his daughter, Sharon — to each classroom at Minnie Minoso Academy, which is down the street from Rate Field.
Bullpen improvement
Despite a high walk rate, the Sox’ bullpen has impressed in the early part of the season. Entering the game Tuesday against the Athletics, Sox relievers had the sixth-best ERA in the majors at 3.22.
Left-hander Cam Booser has been an integral part of the bullpen. Entering Tuesday, Booser had a 2.57 ERA with 10 strikeouts and two walks. He made his major-league debut last season with the Red Sox after retiring from the sport in 2017.
‘‘He’s nasty, man,’’ Venable said. ‘‘It’s serious stuff he’s throwing out there. And just the way he takes care of himself. This guy brings his own food on the road. He is dedicated to being at his best, like all these guys are. But to watch him do his thing and then perform like he does, it’s pretty cool.’’
Injury updates
Catcher Korey Lee is recovering well from the sprained left ankle he suffered last Wednesday against the Guardians.
Despite the progress, however, Lee’s timeline to return remains unclear. He was on a hot stretch at the plate before his injury, batting .333/.412/.467.
• Venable said left fielder Andrew Benintendi, who went on the injured list last week retroactive to April 7, is progressing well but didn’t offer a timeline on him, either.