Steve Webb
LOS ANGELES, CA — Mookie Betts has been named the Dodgers’ nominee for the prestigious 2024 Roberto Clemente Award, presented by Capital One. This award, widely regarded as Major League Baseball’s highest individual honor, recognizes a player who exemplifies the values of Roberto Clemente—community involvement, philanthropy, and positive contributions both on and off the field.
According to a press release issued by the Dodgers this week, Betts’ nomination comes as a result of his extensive work in supporting underserved communities, mentoring youth, and promoting financial literacy. The Dodgers will celebrate his nomination on September 20, 2024, during a pre-game ceremony before their matchup against the Colorado Rockies.
This is Betts’ first nomination for the Roberto Clemente Award, a tribute to the charitable legacy of Clemente, a Hall of Fame player and humanitarian. Each year, one player from each MLB team is selected as a nominee for the award, making Betts’ recognition even more meaningful.
Betts has earned a well-deserved reputation as one of the premier players in Major League Baseball since his debut in 2014. He boasts an impressive resume that includes eight All-Star selections, six Gold Glove awards, six Silver Sluggers, a batting title, and the 2018 American League MVP award. Betts has also been part of two World Series-winning teams and seven postseason appearances.
Beyond his on-field achievements, Betts is deeply committed to giving back to the community. In 2021, he and his wife, Brianna, founded the 5050 Foundation, which focuses on helping children who face medical and financial challenges. The foundation’s four pillars—mental/emotional health, nutrition, financial literacy, and physical fitness—represent Betts’ values and dedication to empowering youth.
One of the foundation’s key initiatives is “50 Feeds LA,” a partnership with the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation that has helped provide food for thousands of people in South Los Angeles. Over the last three holiday seasons, Betts has donated over $300,000 to feed families in need. In 2023, Betts joined forces with the Brotherhood Crusade to distribute Thanksgiving meals to 1,500 families at the Algin Sutton Recreational Center in South L.A.
The 5050 Foundation has also contributed to enhancing youth sports. Through the Mookie Betts + Friends Bowling Tournament, the foundation raised funds for field improvements at John Muir High School, Jackie Robinson’s alma mater. The proceeds went towards renovating dugouts, adding widescreens to the outfield, and other projects to improve the quality of the field for young athletes.
In addition to his work in Los Angeles, Betts created “Team Mookie” in his hometown of Nashville. This elite youth basketball team won the EYBL Championship in 2024, further extending Betts’ commitment to supporting young athletes.
Betts has also made a significant impact through the “Betts on Us Fund” at UCLA Children’s Hospital. The fund assists families of pediatric patients with financial challenges, ensuring they receive proper medical care. Betts and his foundation have also partnered with local schools, hosting a financial literacy workshop at Dodger Stadium in January 2024, where students learned valuable skills from financial professionals.
Betts’ community involvement is further highlighted by his regular participation in Dodgers programming. He frequently engages with Make-A-Wish program participants, local students, and student athletes. He is also an integral part of the Dodgers’ annual “Dodgers Love LA Community Tour” and has supported initiatives like Black Heritage Night and Juneteenth activations.
The winner of the Roberto Clemente Award will be announced during the 2024 World Series, following a vote by a blue-ribbon panel. Fans can also participate by voting online through September 29, with the fan vote counting as one of the official votes.
Betts expressed his gratitude for the nomination, saying, “Helping others has always been important to me. Being nominated and recognized for my commitment to the community is truly an honor.”
If he wins this prestigious award, he won’t be the first Dodger so honored. Steve Garvey won the award in 1981. Clayton Kershaw was recognized in 2012. And Justin Turner got the prize in 2022. Let’s keep our fingers crossed that Mookie becomes the fourth on that list.
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