clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

Clayton Kershaw wins 2012 Roberto Clemente Award

Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw was named the 2012 Roberto Clemente Award for his contributions on and off the field.

Jeff Gross

Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw was given the 2012 Roberto Clemente Award prior to Game 4 of the World Series on Sunday.

The Roberto Clemente award, named for the Hall of Famer, is given anually to a player that contributes both on and off the field. Kershaw was chosen from a list of 30 nominees by a panel that includes MLB commissioner Bud Selig and Vera Clemente, wife of Roberto Clemente.

Kershaw expressed his gratitude, from the press release:

"It is an incredible honor to receive this award," said Kershaw. "Just being associated with someone like Roberto Clemente is truly humbling and I am extremely grateful."

Off the field, Kershaw and his wife Ellen founded "Kershaw's Challenge," a charitable organization that gives back to communities and at-risk children, including orphans and those suffering from diseases related to HIV and AIDS.

On the field, the two-time All-Star claimed the NL Cy Young Award and Gold Glove Award in 2011. This past season, he was 14-9 with a 2.53 ERA in 33 starts.

Kershaw is the second Dodger to ever earn the award, joining Steve Garvey who was named the 1981 winner.