As if Carlos Beltran of the St. Louis Cardinals hasn’t gotten enough awards or titles for his plays and skill in the postseason, he has also been declared the recipient of this year’s Roberto Clemente award.
According to an article from the Associated Press,
"Beltran was seated next to Clemente’s widow, Vera, when he was honored Saturday, about an hour prior to Game 3 of the World Series against the Boston Red Sox. Members of Clemente’s family also attended the news conference.“I must say this year’s recipient truly exemplifies Roberto’s philosophy,” Vera Clemente said. “Carlos Beltran, you are the pride of all Puerto Ricans.”Beltran has contributed more than $4 million to his Carlos Beltran Academy in Puerto Rico and has hosted fundraising efforts throughout the year."
The award is given to a player “whose contributions on and off the field best represent the game.” Beltran spoke about Roberto Clemente and what it was like for him growing up watching Clemente.
"“I never got a chance to watch him play or anything like that,” Beltran said. “When I was a kid I always wanted to be like him, having an opportunity to play baseball and having an opportunity to give back.”"
Taken into consideration from the judges were the online votes cast by the general public. It was said that more than 1.3 million people voted for the award.