The Roberto Clemente Award honors the Pittsburgh Pirates legend and recognizes a player’s community and philanthropic impact.
Clemente spent his 18-year career exclusively with the Pirates. The Hall of Fame outfielder helped lead Pittsburgh to two World Series victories during his time with the team and was a highly decorated player. Off the field, Clemente was known for his philanthropic efforts. He tragically passed in a plane crash while going to Nicaragua to give aid following an earthquake.
Kansas City Royals catcher Salvador Perez won the 2024 Roberto Clemente Award, which recognizes a player’s philanthropy and honors the Pirates legend, according to Sports Illustrated’s Nathaniel Marrero.
“Perez is the 55th player to win the Clemente Award, which dates back to 1971 when MLB Hall-of-Famer Willie Mays was the first player to earn the prestigious accolade,” Marrero said. “Willie Stargell (1974) and Andrew McCutchen (2015) are the two Pirates players to win the award. Pittsburgh reliever David Bednar was the team’s nominee this season and the last three years.”
“Perez earned the award for his impact on the communities in Kansas City, Venezuela and Colombia. He has also made a $1 million donation to the Urban Youth Academy in Kansas City and has distributed food and supplies to thousands in his hometown of Valencia, Venezuela.”
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Perez is a celebrated veteran who’s earned many accolades throughout his career. The former World Series MVP helped lead the Royals to the playoffs this season, hitting 27 home runs and having 104 RBIs. His contributions off the field have been just as impactful as his performance this season.
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