But Doby learned its lessons and never lost his center.

Doby left the music business altogether and became a teacher.

Possibly only the girl did, if she came there to be alone, as Doby believed.

Doby had played second base and shortstop for most of his career.

Doby's involvement with professional sports was not yet finished, however.

This year, more than ever, Doby is getting the recognition he deserves.

Aged 53 years, Doby became the second black manager in the majors.

Doby called it the worst injustice he experienced on the field.

Not the names of the teammates who wouldn't shake Doby's hand.

"I never sought sympathy or felt sorry for myself," Doby said.

"My grandmother warned me never to pick up the money," Doby said.

This summer, Doby showed a new generation that grace still exists.

Doby saw real hope in being a professional baseball player instead of his aspirations to be a teacher and coach.

"I got a tremendous feeling, to see all the improvements," Doby said.

Doby had turned in his saddle to look for his father.

Doby leaned over and peered into the hole, then at the now empty box.

Doby stated he was "not even making any plans to go to Tucson for spring training" leading up to the 1953 season.

"Yogi was one of the first opposing players to talk to me," Doby once said.

When Doby slid into second base, a shortstop spit in his face.

Doby's presence on the team grew in several categories.

By then Doby was established as one of baseball's premier sluggers.

"It was a challenge and a kind of vote of confidence," Doby said.

Now that the tumor is gone, chemotherapy will be needed, Doby said gratefully.

Doby served as one of the pallbearers at Robinson's funeral.

Not everybody understands the difference, but Larry Doby always understood everything.