In a remarkable turn of events, an online petition has been initiated to support Gary Cooper, a former professional baseball player who fell just one day short of qualifying for a mandatory Major League Baseball (MLB) pension. The petition, which has already garnered nearly 5,000 signatures, calls for Cooper to be granted a one-day contract with the Atlanta Braves' coaching staff, ultimately enabling him to meet the league's 43-day minimum requirement for pension eligibility.

Cooper's journey towards securing his MLB pension began 44 years ago when, after spending 42 days with the team, his opportunity to play a crucial game was thwarted by rain. Despite the cancellation, it is important to note that the postponement did not impact the number of days of service required for pension qualification. However, due to subsequent circumstances, Cooper was regrettably moved down to the minor leagues and was never able to make a return to professional baseball.

The 67-year-old former player has faced financial hardships over the years, lacking a car, a permanent home, and savings. To make ends meet, Cooper has worked as a part-time landscaper, but recently faced scarcity of job opportunities. In an effort to support him, Robert Jonas, the petitioner, hopes that the Braves will offer Cooper the chance to join their coaching staff for just one day, ensuring he meets the 43-day prerequisite for the MLB pension.

The initiative draws parallels to a similar situation in 1968 when the Braves signed aging pitcher Satchel Paige to their coaching staff to help him earn his own pension. Cooper, who still resides in Savannah, expressed his gratitude for any assistance he may receive, emphasizing that after such a long wait, anything would make a significant difference in his life.

Adding his voice to the cause, Savannah Mayor Van R. Johnson II took to social media, urging the Braves to sign Cooper to a one-day contract and help him achieve his rightful pension. Johnson's plea exemplifies the growing support and recognition of Cooper's deserving situation.

CNN has reached out to the Atlanta Braves for comment regarding the petition and the potential for Cooper to be granted the one-day contract. As the story continues to gain attention and public backing, many hope that justice will be served, allowing an accomplished player like Cooper to finally receive the long-awaited MLB pension that would provide him with the much-needed financial stability he deserves.