This month, in conjunction with Black History Month, the MLBPA acknowledges the contributions of African-American players who have been pivotal in the advancement of the game -- from the Negro Leagues to the modern day. Some were Hall of Famers. Others were team leaders, fan favorites or union stalwarts who took difficult and at times unpopular stands on behalf of their fellow players. Regardless of time or place, they all left an indelible mark upon the game.