Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
What Is Roberto Clemente Day?
Roberto Clemente day is a special day in baseball that celebrates the life and career of one of the sport’s most revered players. Held September 15, Major League Baseball teams across the country wear Roberto Clemente’s No. 21 uniforms to honor his memory and legacy. He was the first Latin American player inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame and was also known for his humanitarian work.
Early Life & Career Of Clemente
Roberto Clemente was born in Carolina, Puerto Rico, on August 18, 1934. He was one of seven children born to Melchor and Luisa Clemente. His father worked as a foreman at a sugar plantation, and his mother was a housewife. Clemente grew up playing baseball with his brothers and friends in the streets of Carolina. He attended high school at Junipero Serra High School, where he excelled at baseball and basketball.
The Pittsburgh Pirates signed Clemente in 1954. He made his Major League debut in 1955 and quickly became one of the best players in baseball. He was a 15-time All-Star and won the National League MVP Award in 1966. Clemente was also a Gold Glove winner for 12 consecutive seasons. He helped lead the Pirates to the World Series title in 1971, where he was named the World Series MVP.
How Did Roberto Clemente Die?
Tragically, Clemente died in a plane crash on December 31, 1972, while attempting to deliver supplies to earthquake victims in Nicaragua. He was just 38 years old. In 1973, Clemente was posthumously inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. His legacy lives on through the Roberto Clemente Foundation, which provides assistance to underprivileged children in Puerto Rico and other countries.
What Is The Roberto Clemente Award?
The Roberto Clemente Award is an annual award given to a Major League Baseball player who “best exemplifies the game of baseball, sportsmanship, community involvement and the individual’s contribution to his team,” as voted on by baseball fans and members of the media. Clemente was known for his tremendous work ethic and dedication to giving back to his community. It is one of the most prestigious awards in all of baseball.
