Long time coming

From left, Roy Campanella, Larry Doby, Don Newcombe and Jackie Robinson meet 75 years ago today at Ebbets Field

Black players appear for the first time in a major league All-Star Game 75 years ago today at Brooklyn’s Ebbets Field.

Second baseman Jackie Robinson, catcher Roy Campanella and pitcher Don Newcombe represent Brooklyn for the National League, while Cleveland center fielder Larry Doby plays for the American League.

Robinson plays all nine innings at second base and scores three of the National League’s runs in a game the American League eventually wins 11-7 before a Tuesday afternoon crowd of 32,577.

Campanella replaces Philadelphia Phillies catcher Andy Seminick in the top of the fourth inning and goes 0-for-2 with a walk, while Newcombe pitches 2 2/3 innings of relief for starter Warren Spahn of Milwaukee and takes the loss.

Doby grounds out in his only at-bat after replacing the New York Yankees’ Joe DiMaggio in the sixth inning.

The four will combine to play in 20 All-Star Games with Robinson, Campanella and Doby ultimately reaching the Hall of Fame, while Newcombe wins the first Cy Young Award in 1956 – back when just one pitcher is selected for both leagues.