Historic photo of Montreal Royals team owner Hector Racine shaking Jackie Robinson's hand as he welcomes him to the Royals spring training camp in early March, 1946. When, on October 23, 1945, Racine announced to local reporters that he had a major announcement, most assumed he had secured a Major League franchise for the city. Instead, he shocked the world by announcing that the Royals had signed Jackie Robinson to play for the club, making Robinson the first African American player in organized baseball since Moses Fleetwood Walker in 1889. At the press conference, Racine stated "Negros fought alongside white boys and shared the dangers in foxholes, so there should be no prejudice against them - they should get a fair trial in organized baseball." Like Brooklyn Dodgers owner Branch Rickey, who orchestrated the plan to break baseball's long-standing color barrier, Racine was well aware that Robinson's signing was fraught with peril. Spring training was a trial by fire for Robinson and Racine, as many Florida communities let it be known in no uncertain terms that the Royals, and especially Robinson, were not welcome. This photo shows the bond between the two, with Racine making it clear by his handshake that the two of them were in it together, and that Robinson had his full support. Robinson, in what was certainly one of the most pressure-filled seasons ever endured by any player, weathered each daily storm with the grace and self-assurance of a man who knew full well the significance of the opportunity, and had both the courage and ability to succeed. Robinson finished the season with league-leading totals in batting average (.349), on-base percentage (.468), and runs scored (113), which earned him league MVP honors at season's end. Robinson's name and "Daytona Beach" are written on the reverse in pencil. The crystal-clear photo measures 5.25x4" and displays light adhesive residue on the reverse. Excellent condition. PSA encapsulated as Type I Authentic.