This Day in Black History: Emmett Ashford Makes History as First Black MLB Umpire

On April 11, 1966, Emmett Ashford broke one of Major League Baseball’s enduring color barriers—this time not with a bat or glove, but with a chest protector and umpire’s mask. Making his debut at D.C. Stadium in Washington, D.C., Ashford became the first Black umpire in Major League Baseball history, calling balls and strikes in the Opening Day game between the Washington Senators and Cleveland Indians.

A proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Ashford embodied achievement in every field of human endeavor. Known for his dynamic, animated style behind the plate, he brought a showmanship to umpiring that the game had never seen. He sprinted between bases, made booming calls, and always kept the crowd engaged. But his path to the majors wasn’t easy.

Ashford spent over 15 years in the minor leagues, facing discrimination and skepticism at every turn. Yet, he remained committed to excellence and integrity on the field. Even on his debut day, he was stopped by Secret Service agents who doubted he was actually an MLB umpire. His response? “There will be a Negro umpire in the American League if you will let me into the park.”

Ashford would go on to umpire in the 1967 All-Star Game and serve in the 1970 World Series, marking a legacy that still inspires generations today.

At Prophytes Be Like, we honor Emmett Ashford not only for what he did on the diamond, but for how he did it—with style, confidence, and excellence that made his fraternity and community proud.