Is MLB Mostly White
According to data from Infogram, as of July 5, 2022, the majority of MLB players are White, accounting for 57.5% of the total player population.
Major League Baseball (MLB) has long been a melting pot of diverse cultures and ethnicities. However, recent statistics reveal a significant racial disparity within the league. According to data from Infogram, as of July 5, 2022, the majority of MLB players are White, accounting for 57.5% of the total player population. Hispanic players make up the second largest group at 31.9%, while Black players represent a mere 7.7%.
The Declining Presence of Black Players in MLB
The percentage of Black players in MLB has seen a steady decline over the years. In fact, the number of Black players on opening day rosters in 2023 was just 6.2%, down from 7.2% the previous year. This represents the lowest percentage of Black players since 1955, according to a study by USA TODAY Sports.
MLB's Efforts to Increase Diversity
Despite the declining percentage of Black players, MLB has made concerted efforts to increase diversity within its ranks. For instance, the 2022 All-Star Game saw 14 of the 18 starting players coming from diverse backgrounds. Additionally, the 2023 World Baseball Classic featured eight players from diverse backgrounds, including four Black players.