The Commissioner's Historic Achievement Award, created in 1998 to recognize achievement of historical significance, was given to Rachel Robinson for her contribution and sacrifice to the legacy of her husband, Jackie Robinson, who broke the color barrier in Major League Baseball in 1947. Throughout her life, Mrs. Robinson has championed numerous social and charitable causes and, in 1973, founded The Jackie Robinson Foundation, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide scholarships and leadership training.

"Rachel Robinson has played a significant role in the history of baseball through the strength she gave her husband, Jackie, and the way she has continued to champion the causes in which they both believed so strongly," said Commissioner Selig. "On the 60th anniversary of Jackie's entry into the Major Leagues, it is fitting to honor Rachel with this prestigious award."

Mrs. Robinson is the first woman to receive the Commissioner's Historic Achievement Award. Past recipients include Roberto Clemente (posthumously), Ichiro Suzuki, Roger Clemens, Rickey Henderson, Barry Bonds, the 2001 Seattle Mariners, Tony Gwynn, Cal Ripken Jr., Mark McGwire, and Sammy Sosa.

The trophy, which stands 12 inches tall, has a sterling silver base with a baseball mounted at the top. The words "Commissioner's Historic Achievement" are engraved around the base of the trophy with the Major League Baseball silhouetted batter logo above the type.

This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.