When you hear “Wildcats,” names like Dan Issel come to mind. But another Wildcat alumni helped rewrite sports history— Albert B. “Happy” Chandler. Governor. U.S. Senator. MLB Commissioner. And a champion for integration, from Jackie Robinson’s debut to Kentucky’s first Black football player.
From UK athlete to political powerhouse
Born in Corydon in 1898, Chandler played baseball, football, and basketball at UK before entering public life. He served as governor (1935–39, 1955–59) and U.S. senator (1939–45). He would then change the game forever as MLB Commissioner.
Commissioner who broke baseball’s color line
In 1945, Chandler succeeded Landis as MLB commissioner. In 1947, he famously backed Branch Rickey’s signing of Jackie Robinson, stating, “If they can fight and die on Okinawa… they can play baseball in America." Despite a 15–1 vote against, he approved Robinson's contract and shielded him from abuse, issuing discipline for racist taunts. His stand helped integrate the sport, putting him in the Hall of Fame in 1982.
Advocating integration at home
Back in Kentucky, Chandler pressed for racial inclusion. As governor, he enforced Brown v. Board rulings—deploying the National Guard in 1956 to assist in desegregating schools . While he didn't directly argue Lyman Johnson’s 1949 desegregation suit, his integrationist reputation helped cultivate acceptance toward change .
By 1967, UK welcomed its first Black scholarship football player, Nate Northington, who paved the way—even as he faced immense hardship
Championing change through the decades
Chandler's influence extended deeper: he helped establish player pensions and oversee landmark rulings in MLB, always prioritizing fairness over Black athlete progress. His political reintegration policies and advocacy made meaningful strides for UK athletics.
Wildcat pride, shared legacy
Next time you cheer at Kroger Field or Rupp Arena, remember Chandler’s legacy: the first on-field UK athlete to push integration, both on the diamond and at home. His courage opened doors for Greg Page, Jack Givens, Valerie Still, Rhyne Howard — and every athlete who followed. It reminds us that greatness isn’t only about points, but about opening paths for others.