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 McCutchen was one of 30 candidates for the award as each of the
Major League Baseball teams nominated one of their own players for
the honor.
A five-time All-Star and former National League Most Valuable
Player, McCutchen has participated heavily in activities for Pirates
Charities and in fundraising.
He also supports other local and national charities, including the
Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh Foundation and the Make-A-Wish
Foundation, hosting children at the ballpark facing life-threatening
illnesses.
The award pays tribute to Roberto Clemente's achievements and
character by recognizing current players who dedicate themselves to
helping others.
It is named for the Hall of Famer and 15-time All-Star who died in a
plane crash on New Year's Eve in 1972 while attempting to deliver
supplies to earthquake victims in Nicaragua.
"I can only hope that I can do at least half that he did," said
McCutchen.
McCutchen's selection was announced by Commissioner of Baseball
Robert D. Manfred, Jr. at a press conference prior to Game Three of
the World Series at Citi Field.
"Andrew McCutchen has distinguished himself as one of the greatest
players in his franchise's long history, and he now stands alongside
perhaps the most legendary Pirate of all, Roberto Clemente, for his
charitable work away from the diamond," the commissioner said.
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"Andrew is an outstanding ambassador for our game, particularly for
his ability to connect with our young fans."
Vera Clemente, MLB Goodwill Ambassador and Wife of Roberto Clemente,
said: "Roberto played his entire career in the outfield for the
Pittsburgh Pirates, as has Andrew, and I know Roberto would have
been very proud of the many lives that Andrew has touched in
Pittsburgh and in his hometown in Florida."
(Reporting by Larry Fine; Editing by Mark Lamport-Stokes)
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