The MLBPA takes steps toward legitimacy 1966 – A four-person search committee consisting of big leaguers Robin Roberts, Jim Bunning, Harvey Kuenn and Bob Friend begins the process of finding new leadership for the MLBPA, which was conceived in 1953 but has not been formally recognized as a union. The MLBPA was the fifth attempt to organize MLB Players, with the first attempt dating back to 1885.