MLB holds a ceremony at Citi Field to commemorate Roberto Clemente Day.
MLB Commemorates Roberto Clemente Day with Special Ceremony at Citi Field.
NEW YORK — Major League Baseball (MLB) held a moving ceremony at Citi Field on Friday, September 15, to celebrate the life and legacy of the late Roberto Clemente, one of the most beloved and influential figures in the sport’s history. The ceremony, which marked the annual Roberto Clemente Day, was attended by family members, former players, dignitaries, and fans, all gathered to honor Clemente’s contributions to the game, his impact on society, and his enduring legacy.
Roberto Clemente, the Hall of Fame outfielder who played 18 seasons with the Pittsburgh Pirates, is remembered not only for his exceptional skill on the field but also for his humanitarian work off it. The MLB’s observance of Roberto Clemente Day, which has been a tradition since 2002, serves to highlight the values Clemente stood for: integrity, community, and a passion for helping others. It also encourages players across the league to emulate his example by using their platform for social good.
This year, the ceremony at Citi Field took on a special significance, as it marked the first time that Roberto Clemente’s Day was celebrated at a New York venue, in this case, the home ballpark of the New York Mets. The Mets’ connection to Clemente is deeply rooted, not only because of the importance of his legacy in baseball, but also due to the city’s vibrant Puerto Rican community, which cherishes Clemente as a cultural and national hero.
A Moment of Reflection and Tribute
The ceremony began with a moving video tribute that showcased Clemente’s remarkable baseball career and humanitarian efforts. The video highlighted his 3,000 career hits, his 12 Gold Glove Awards, his 1966 National League MVP award, and his unparalleled dedication to community work, including his selfless mission to deliver aid to earthquake victims in Nicaragua, a mission that ultimately led to his tragic death in a plane crash in December 1972.
Following the video, MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred took to the microphone to express the league’s admiration for Clemente’s legacy. “Roberto Clemente was an extraordinary player who broke barriers, but his influence went far beyond the baseball field,” Manfred said. “His passion for social justice and his commitment to helping those in need made him a true pioneer. Today, we honor him not just as a player but as a humanitarian whose impact is still felt throughout the world.”
Manfred was joined by Mets’ owner Steve Cohen and team executives, who all spoke of the deep reverence that the Mets and their fans have for Clemente. “The Mets have always held Roberto Clemente in the highest regard,” Cohen said. “His legacy continues to inspire not only the players who wore the uniform but the fans who cheer for the game. We are proud to commemorate his contributions to baseball and humanity.”
The Clemente Family in Attendance
A particularly emotional part of the ceremony came when Clemente’s widow, Vera Clemente, and his children — Luis Clemente and Roberto Clemente Jr. — were introduced to the crowd. Vera Clemente, wearing a black dress adorned with a patch of her late husband’s iconic number 21, stood with pride as the Mets and MLB paid tribute to her husband’s legacy.
“We are so grateful to see Roberto’s legacy alive and thriving through all of you,” Vera Clemente said, her voice filled with emotion. “He was not just a great baseball player but a man who believed in helping others. His spirit lives on in each of you, and for that, we thank you.”
Roberto Clemente Jr. also spoke during the ceremony, reflecting on his father’s character and his desire to uplift those around him. “My father taught me that baseball is a platform, a way to reach the world and make it a better place. Every year when we gather to honor him, I am reminded that his work is far from finished. We all have the ability to change lives,” Clemente Jr. said.
Recognition of Players with Humanitarian Efforts
In addition to honoring Clemente’s memory, the event also recognized active MLB players who have demonstrated outstanding humanitarian efforts in their communities. The Roberto Clemente Award, given annually to a player who best represents the spirit of Clemente both on and off the field, was presented to this year’s recipient, New York Mets pitcher Max Scherzer.
Scherzer, who has long been involved in charitable work, was praised for his efforts to support underprivileged youth, particularly through his foundation that provides educational opportunities to children in need. In his acceptance speech, Scherzer emphasized the importance of using one’s platform for good. “Roberto Clemente showed us that the game of baseball can be used for something far greater than just winning games. It can be a tool to give back to our communities,” Scherzer said.
A Lasting Legacy
The ceremony concluded with a moment of silence, during which the crowd reflected on Roberto Clemente’s incredible legacy. Players from both the Mets and the visiting team wore patches on their jerseys in his honor, and Clemente’s iconic No. 21 was displayed prominently at the ballpark. Fans in the stands, many of them wearing Clemente jerseys and holding up signs, joined in the tribute, paying homage to one of the greatest players and humanitarians to ever grace the game.
As the ceremony ended, the New York Mets and their fans left Citi Field with a renewed sense of appreciation for the enduring impact of Roberto Clemente, a man who transcended the game of baseball and became a global symbol of compassion, courage, and integrity. Through his example, Clemente continues to inspire new generations of players, fans, and humanitarians around the world.
