Major League Baseball announced in a press release on Monday that Mookie Betts has been chosen as the Dodgers’ nominee for the 2024 Roberto Clemente Award presented by Capital One, which is widely regarded as the highest individual honor in the sport.
The Roberto Clemente Award, sponsored by Capital One, honors a Major League player who exemplifies the spirit of baseball through exceptional character, community service, philanthropy, and positive impacts both on and off the field.
Each MLB team selects one player annually to be considered for this league-wide accolade, celebrating Roberto Clemente’s legacy and values. This marks Betts’ first time being nominated for this distinguished award.
“Community work and helping others has always been important to me,” said Betts . “I never look for recognition because I feel like it’s a requirement for all of us to help others in need. I just try and be the best I can to everyone and hope that it’s meaningful. However, to be nominated and recognized for my commitment to the community and those around me is definitely an honor and leaves me encouraged to keep going.”
In 2021, Betts and his wife Brianna launched the 5050 Foundation with a clear goal: “Overcome obstacles that prevent kids from reaching their full potential, especially those facing medical and financial challenges.” The foundation is built around four core values that reflect Mookie Betts’ principles: mental and emotional well-being, proper nutrition, financial education, and physical fitness.
Betts also launched “50 Feeds LA” in 2021 in collaboration with the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation, contributing over $300,000 to provide meals for thousands in South L.A. In 2023, he helped distribute Thanksgiving meals to 1,500 families at Algin Sutton Recreational Center. The same year, the 5050 Foundation introduced the annual Mookie Betts + Friends Bowling Tournament, with funds supporting field improvements at Jackie Robinson’s high school, John Muir.
Betts and his foundation have also been active at UCLA Children’s Hospital, establishing the “Betts on Us Fund” to assist families with pediatric healthcare costs. They partnered with Crete Academy to bring over 700 underserved youth to a Dodger game and hosted a financial literacy workshop at Dodger Stadium .
Additionally, Betts founded “Team Mookie” in Nashville, where his 16U basketball team won the EYBL Championship League Title. He remains engaged with Dodgers community programs, mentoring Make-A-Wish participants, visiting local students, and participating in initiatives like the Dodgers Love LA Community Tour, Juneteenth events, Black Heritage Night, and Jackie Robinson Day.
The Dodgers plan to honor Betts on the field before their game against the Colorado Rockies on Friday, Sept. 20.
Photo Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
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