Philly Sports Jabronis
SAN FRANCISCO — For the first time, there are two winners of the Roberto Clemente Award, sponsored by Chevrolet and presented annually to recognize a Major League player who best represents the game of baseball through positive contributions on and off the field, including sportsmanship and community involvement.
Phillies shortstop Jimmy Rollins and White Sox first baseman Paul Konerko were presented with their awards on Friday before Game 3 of the World Series at AT&T Park.
“Paul Konerko and Jimmy Rollins are two of baseball’s great ambassadors and have long distinguished themselves as leaders both on the field and in their communities,” Commissioner Bud Selig said. “Their commitment to making a difference in the lives of children is a wonderful reflection of the legacy the legendary Roberto Clemente has left on our game and in society. Major League Baseball is proud to honor Jimmy and Paul, two veteran standouts who have represented the National Pastime with excellence, with our game’s most prestigious recognition.”
Rollins has long supported J-Roll’s Aces, a charitable ticket program, and the J-Roll’s Readers program, each of which is dedicated to directly working with and enhancing the lives of inner-city students. During his time with the Phillies, he has also hosted major fundraisers to benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, Prevent Child Abuse, Pennsylvania, The Food Trust, SHARE Food Program and St. Christopher’s Foundation for Children, raising more than $1 million.
Jimmy Rollins (center) and Chicago White Sox Paul Konerko (right) are sharing one of baseball’s most cherished honors. Photo credit – Phillies.com
This season, Rollins also passed Mike Schmidt and became the franchise’s all-time hits leader.
“You understand the prestige that comes with the award, and not for any other reason but to say, wow, I did something important in the game that had nothing to do with baseball, but everything to do with helping others,” Rollins said.
