Braves closer Will Smith was named the franchise’s Roberto Clemente Award nominee for 2021, MLB announced Tuesday.
The Roberto Clemente Award is given annually to the player who “best represents the game through extraordinary character, community involvement, philanthropy and on- and off-the-field contributions,” according to MLB. Each of the 30 teams nominated a player to be considered for the honor.
Smith is active in his home community, working at a local animal shelter and helping pets find homes. He partnered with the team and local charities to help his native Newnan and Coweta County after the tornadoes in March. Smith, 32, signed with the Braves in the 2019 offseason.
“It is an honor to be named the Braves’ nominee for the Roberto Clemente Award,” Smith said in a statement. “I’m humbled to be associated with such great nominees from across the league, and proud of the work my teammates and players around Major League Baseball have done to better their communities.”
Wednesday marks MLB’s 20th annual Roberto Clemente Day, which honors the Hall of Famer’s legacy as a philanthropist and humanitarian. Smith will be recognized as the team’s award nominee Wednesday before the Braves face the Rockies at Truist Park.
Braves players to earn the Roberto Clemente Award include John Smoltz (2005), Dale Murphy (1988) and Phil Niekro (1980).
Fans can vote for the Roberto Clemente Award at mlb.com/clemente21 until Oct. 3. The fan vote will count as one vote among the blue ribbon panel that will determine the winner. The panel includes commissioner Rob Manfred, representatives from MLB-affiliated networks and Clemente’s children, Enrique, Luis and Roberto Clemente Jr.
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