More than #GivingTuesday: Players helping their communities

“To whom much is given, from him much is expected.” In the spirit of Roberto Clemente, players from all over Latin America have kept their attention on their communities—in their home countries and the United States—during the season as well as in the winter months.

For many ballplayers, what was given was athletic ability. What has been earned, through hard work, is a path to the major leagues. And while fans do not often know about it or expect it, players around the league feel as compelled to play as much of a role in their communities as they do on the diamond for their teams.

For Nelson Cruz, making sure towns in his native Dominican Republic have essential safety equipment for fire and rescue services was a need he knew had to be addressed. For Mariners closer Edwin Díaz, helping provide a better little league experience for kids in their home town is important.

For Robinson Chirinos, making sure kids in Texas have the supplies they need to be successful in school became a priority. And for others, like Albert Pujols and José Abreu, creating opportunities for developmentally disabled individuals is their calling.

As we celebrate Giving Tuesday, here are players sharing how, and why, they give back.

Featured Image: La Vida Baseball