Chris Sale of the Atlanta Braves has won this year’s Lou Gehrig Memorial Award, sponsored by the Phi Delta Theta International Fraternity, headquartered in Oxford, Ohio. Phi Delta Theta presents the award annually to a Major League Baseball player who best exemplifies the giving character of Hall of Famer Lou Gehrig, who was a member of the Fraternity’s Columbia University chapter. The award was first presented in 1955 and is permanently maintained at the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Cooperstown, New York.
Sale is the sixth member of the Braves to win the Lou Gehrig Memorial Award following Warren Spahn (1961), Hank Aaron (1970), Phil Niekro (1979), Dale Murphy (1985), and John Smoltz (2005). He will receive the award prior to a game this summer.
Past recipients of the award include Stan Musial, Brooks Robinson, Ernie Banks, Harmon Killebrew, Willie Stargell, Johnny Bench, George Brett, Kent Hrbek, Cal Ripken Jr., Don Mattingly, Tony Gwynn, Jim Thome, Derek Jeter, Adrian Beltre, and many more.
A look at the history of the award
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Off the Field
Since being traded to the Atlanta Braves before the 2024 season, Chris Sale has made an incredible impact on the Braves Country community by providing unique and memorable experiences for local children and military families.
Each month during the season, Sale hosts a group of deserving Braves fans as his special guests in the Atlanta Braves Foundation’s Community Clubhouse, a private and exclusive pregame hospitality space inside Truist Park. During the 2024 season, Sale welcomed families from Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta’s Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children’s Miracle Network, Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, and Camp Sunshine. The experience includes food, beverages, and Braves swag for each of the groups in the Community Clubhouse. Sale also made it a priority to visit the group pregame, spend quality time with them, take photos, sign autographs, and answer any questions they might have.
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One group Sale hosted during the 2024 season was the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, a nonprofit organization focused on providing bereavement resources and experiences for families suffering the loss of a military family member. He hosted this group on Memorial Day, and the families had the chance to go on the field pregame to meet Sale and take photos. For the five families from Braves Country who had all recently lost a loved one, this was an incredibly moving experience.
Chris Sale also played a huge role in the Braves’ Lou Gehrig Day celebration at Truist Park this season. Sale lost his grandmother to ALS in 1995 when he was five years old. After losing his grandmother, he became infatuated with Lou Gehrig and his legacy, which has carried over to his career in professional baseball. This season for Lou Gehrig Day, Sale joined Matt Olson in honoring twin sisters from Holly Springs, North Carolina, who had recently lost their father to ALS. The sisters were each awarded a scholarship from the Live Like Lou Foundation for their upcoming school year at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. Sale and Olson stepped up to the plate to match the scholarship donation. Not only did Sale take part in that special pregame ceremony and check presentation, but he also came out of the clubhouse early to meet the ALS families taking part in the day and caught the first pitch thrown by the son of a local ALS patient from Emory Hospital. Sale’s contribution and presence on Lou Gehrig Day made it extremely special for the participants and their families.
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Sale also generously donates one percent of his salary to the Atlanta Braves Foundation. With his support and generosity, the Atlanta Braves Foundation can continue its mission of building community through baseball by supporting nonprofits focused on military veterans and children across Braves Country. He is not only an All-Star on the field but also is making a significant contribution to his community and beyond. Chris Sale embodies Lou Gehrig’s character and heart.
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On the Field
Chris Sale was named the 2024 National League Cy Young Award winner, becoming the first Braves pitcher to win the honor since Tom Glavine in 1998. He won the National League Triple Crown after leading the league in wins (18), ERA (2.38), and strikeouts (225). Sale became the first National League pitcher to lead in each of these categories during a 162-game season since Clayton Kershaw in 2011. The Atlanta ace also finished three strikeouts behind the MLB-leading total of Detroit’s Tarik Skubal, who won this year’s American League Cy Young Award. Had he at least matched Skubal, he would have become Major League Baseball’s first Triple Crown winner since Johan Santana in 2006. Sale also ranked first among pitchers with a 6.4 fWAR (wins above replacement), a 32.1 percent strikeout rate, and a 2.09 FIP (fielding independent pitching).
Lou Gehrig Memorial Award Finalists
Phi Delta Theta Fraternity, in partnership with the Live Like Lou Foundation and the Permobil Foundation, is proud to recognize the finalists for the Lou Gehrig Memorial Award. The award’s finalists, and their respective teams will have the opportunity to surprise an individual battling ALS in their community with a custom, team-branded, Permobil wheelchair during the upcoming season. Phi Delta Theta is proud to partner with the Live Like Lou Foundation and the Permobil Foundation to help give these priceless gifts to those affected by ALS.
📷 Click on any image to learn more about the finalist.
Lou Gehrig Memorial Award Nominees
Phi Delta Theta is proud to feature all team nominees for this year’s award. Each nominee has made great impact in his communities and for his team.
📷 Click on any image to learn more about the nominee. Listed alphabetically.
Lou Gehrig Memorial Award Finalists
Freddie Freeman, Los Angeles Dodgers
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Freddie Freeman has made a significant impact on the Los Angeles community since joining the Dodgers, demonstrating a deep commitment to service and philanthropy. Known for his generosity, he has been involved in numerous charitable initiatives that include supporting CURE Childhood Cancer, a nonprofit organization dedicated to finding cures for pediatric cancers, as well as his alma mater, El Modena High School in Orange, California, where he donated $500,000 to build a new baseball clubhouse, locker room, team meeting area, coach’s office, and larger batting cage. Freddie has been an active participant in the Dodger’s community outreach programs, engaging with local youth and underserved communities. He’s also supported causes related to military veterans, education, and health, always seeking to make a positive difference.
Freddie’s personal dedication to the Los Angeles area is evident in his contributions to disaster relief efforts, such as his substantial donations to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, the Pasadena Fire Department, and the Salvation Army during the California wildfires. Freddie’s passion for giving back is further exemplified through his involvement with the Dodgers Foundation, where he has supported initiatives aimed at improving education, health, and wellness in the community.
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In 2024, while dealing with unimaginable personal circumstances related to the health of his son, Maximus, who developed Guillain-Barré syndrome shortly after the All-Star break, Freeman continued to be his usual steady self, hitting .282 with twenty-two home runs and eighty-nine RBI in 147 games. He was named to his eighth All-Star game in July and finished among the National League leaders in batting (10th), OBP (4th, .378), OPS (6th, .854), and walks (78, T-5th). He played in his 2,000th career game on August 16 at St. Louis.
Despite playing on a badly injured ankle that would require off-season surgery, he delivered an unforgettable postseason for the 2024 World Champion Dodgers. After being slowed by the ankle in the Division Series and the League Championship Series, Freeman hit the first-ever walk-off Grand Slam in Game 1 of the World Series and then proceeded to hit three more home runs in the Fall Classic and became the first player in Major League history to hit a home run in six straight World Series games. Freeman recorded a record-tying twelve RBI in the World Series and was the first-ever player to hit a home run in each of the first four games of a World Series. His final World Series slash line was .300/.364/1.000, and he was named the unanimous World Series MVP.
Bobby Witt Jr., Kansas City Royals
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Bobby Witt Jr. is a leader on and off the field, and his incredible talent is on display not only at Kauffman Stadium but also in the Kansas City community. Witt’s infectious charisma and positive attitude permeate through his community efforts, and you will often find him spending time with young fans during his pregame routine, including children from Dream Factory, which grants youth with life-threatening or chronic illnesses their dreams.
Bobby strongly supports organizations that are working to create awareness and fight ALS. This year, he hosted a clinic for more than three hundred local youth in support of Sarah’s Soldiers. The three-hour baseball clinic was hosted during an off day and raised over $45,000, with 100 percent of the event proceeds supporting Sarah Nauser and others battling ALS. Bobby has worn a Sarah’s Soldiers bracelet daily, including during games, and often wears a Sarah’s Soldiers shirt during batting practice. In addition, he has taken his talents from the diamond to the links in support of the Team Hilliard Foundation golf tournament to help raise awareness and funds for ALS research.
Furthermore, Bobby has worked with local youth to help increase literacy rates in the Kansas City Metro as a Royals Literacy League Classroom Champion. This program was launched by the Kansas City Royals Foundation and local partners to build excitement around reading and literacy in elementary-aged students in public schools in Kansas City while providing additional support to and appreciation for the educators who serve them. Bobby was one of the first players to step forward providing the students and faculty with inspiration to continue to do their best. He routinely checks in on the classrooms and is on a first-name basis with many of the kids while helping teach them the importance of reading.
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Bobby is a true five-tool player and stepped up in a big way for the Royals in 2024. He was voted First Team All-MLB at shortstop after he became the first player to hit twenty home runs and have twenty stolen bases in each of his first three seasons. The 2024 All-Star became the first shortstop with two seasons of thirty home runs and thirty stolen bases—he totaled thirty-two home runs and stole thirty one bases, helping to earn him the Heart and Hustle Award. Bobby is the first ever member of the Royals to win the Heart and Hustle Award.
Witt’s 9.4 WAR was second in baseball to Aaron Judge while slashing .332 to earn him the American League Batting Title and his first Silver Slugger Award. He had a career high 211 hits while playing 161 regular season games—surpassing his 2023 benchmark of 158 games played. It is not all about offense and speed for Bobby, as he also did it with the glove. He has become one of the best defensive shortstops in the game, earning his first Gold Glove. The 2024 season capped a year of firsts as Bobby became the first shortstop in history to bring home a Gold Glove, Batting Title, and Silver Slugger award in the same season.
Liam Hendriks, Boston Red Sox
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Fifty-four fan interactions, approximately forty-eight hours of one-on-one time with fans, thirty-three ceremonial first pitches caught, and countless lifelong memories created for community members. Liam Hendriks understands that being a Major League Baseball player offers a unique platform to make a significant impact beyond the game. Liam embraces this responsibility fully, leveraging his position to contribute meaningfully to the community. His excellence on the mound has earned him recognition, including All-Star nods, but his impact lies in his extraordinary character.
The 2024 season marked the beginning of a new chapter for Liam and his wife, Kristi. Once Liam’s contract with the Red Sox was finalized, he immediately began setting his off-the-field community engagement agenda–as the Hendriks’ have consistently done along their baseball journey.
Although Liam was unable to contribute on the diamond while recovering from surgery in 2024, he compensated with his extensive off-the-field outreach efforts. He met with cancer patients and survivors on nearly every homestand and road trip, offering them a full VIP experience. As a recent cancer survivor himself, Liam has a unique understanding that few others can share. He spends significant time with each person he meets to share intimate details of treatment side effects, mental struggles, and the stress around checkups.
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That alone is so personal and meaningful, yet Liam’s outreach only begins there. He continues to be an advocate for animal rescue, a supporter of first responders as he greets some of our nation’s heroes during an in-game recognition program, a champion for our veterans by serving as the player captain of the Red Sox Foundation Home Base program, a loyal ally of the LGBTQ+ community, and friend to the ALS community, which is so robust in New England. He even participated in the tenth anniversary of the Pete Frates Ice Bucket Challenge with a pre-recorded video—ice bucket dump on his head and all!—to share at the commemoration event at Fenway Park while he was with the team on the road.
Liam was excited to return to Boston with a couple of teammates in early December to visit nonprofits on the Red Sox Holiday Caravan. As a baseball veteran, he exemplified what it means to be an engaged community champion. There were long conversations with adult cancer patients at the American Cancer Society Hope Lodge, teen cancer patients at the Jimmy Fund Clinic, thoughtful baseball instruction for aspiring young pitchers, and more. What stood out from his holiday community outreach tour was the $18,000 he donated at the Boston Children’s Hospital annual gala live auction to allow a young hospital patient, a big basketball fan, to participate in the Celtics Ball Kid experience before a game this season.
Many athletes shy away from using their platform for advocacy. Liam embraces it. He is an active ally for various communities that sometimes don’t receive as much support across the board. Liam has never hesitated to do what he believes is good and just. You would be hard-pressed to find another athlete, let alone another human, who is as fiercely an advocate and supporter (with time and financial contributions) for those most in need.
Gerrit Cole, New York Yankees
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Gerrit Cole is known for his exceptional performance on the mound as well as his commitment to giving back to the community. Off the field, Cole has demonstrated a deep passion for philanthropy and making a positive impact on the lives of others. After signing with the Yankees and during the COVID-19 pandemic, Gerrit and his wife, Amy, established the Gerrit & Amy Cole Foundation. The foundation’s mission is to help improve the standard of living for children across the country. It emphasizes and funds five main causes: pediatric cancer research, combating childhood hunger, education, culture and arts education, and athletic opportunities for children.
Cole has also been involved with initiatives supporting military veterans, cancer research, and health workers. He regularly participates in charity events and works alongside his teammates and other public figures to raise awareness and funds for a variety of causes. In addition, he has shown a strong dedication to helping families impacted by natural disasters, using his platform to raise both funds and spirits during challenging times.
Coming off of a Cy Young Award-winning 2023 season, Cole had an outstanding 2024 season, solidifying his status as one of the game’s elite pitchers. He was a key figure in the Yankees’ rotation, consistently delivering dominant performances throughout the year. Cole led the team in both innings pitched and strikeouts, showcasing his ability to control games from the mound. His electric fastball and devastating slider made him a formidable force, and his leadership was crucial for the Yankees’ pitching staff.
Cole’s efforts helped the Yankees secure a World Series appearance in 2024, and he earned his fifth career All-Star selection. In addition to his individual success, Cole reached several career milestones, further cementing his legacy as one of the top pitchers of his generation. His performance not only provided stability for the Yankees’ pitching staff but also set a strong example for younger players.
Lou Gehrig Memorial Award Nominees
Tristan Beck, San Francisco Giants
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Since debuting with the San Francisco Giants in 2023, Tristan Beck has quickly become a beloved figure in the Bay Area, known for his on-field talent and off-field community involvement. A former standout at Stanford University, he has used his platform to support several local nonprofits. Beck is deeply involved with We’re All Working on Something (WAWOS), an organization supporting children with cerebral palsy, and was appointed to its honorary board of directors in 2024. He also contributes to George Mark Children’s House, a pediatric palliative care facility, and various pediatric cancer nonprofits like Family House, the Kids & Art Foundation, and UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital, bringing joy and hope to families facing serious health challenges.
Although an aneurysm cut his season short in 2024, Beck continued his community efforts, attending events, volunteering, and meeting families. Known for his authentic connections and empathy, Tristan inspires everyone he meets and is always the first to volunteer his time to give back to the community.
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Corbin Carroll, Arizona Diamondbacks
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Arizona Diamondbacks 2023 National League Rookie of the Year Corbin Carroll exemplifies the values of the Lou Gehrig Memorial Award through his leadership on the field and dedication to community impact. Corbin launched the Corbin Carroll CC7 Fund with the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation to support children’s programs, including baseball and softball opportunities for underserved youth. He actively participates in the D-backs Nike Jr. RBI Program, providing equipment and hosting clinics for kids in underserved communities.
Corbin also promotes education and literacy by collaborating with the Diamondbacks and Honeywell to create a STEM storybook, Martian Moon Mayhem, and surprise visits to schools. His work extends to the D-backs Give Back to School initiative and the Honeywell Launch Back-to-School Backpack Program, where he personally delivered supplies to refugee students. During the offseason, Corbin stays engaged by participating in holiday events, including the D-backs Boys & Girls Club Holiday Party and the annual D-backs Give Back Shopping Spree for homeless teens.
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Declan Cronin, Miami Marlins
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Since joining the Marlins in 2024, Declan Cronin has been deeply involved in charitable initiatives, particularly those supporting military veterans and children’s hospitals. He facilitated the one hundredth birthday celebration of World War II veteran Sidney Levit, presenting him with a personalized Marlins jersey and escorting him to the mound to throw the first pitch. Declan also supported the Pals and Patriots organization, which helps military personnel and veterans.
Declan’s work extends to children’s hospitals, where he participated in team visits to the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital and UHealth Sylvester Cancer Center, presenting Joy Jars filled with toys and activities for young patients. Declan further demonstrated his dedication by volunteering at the WOW Center Field Day, an event for individuals with disabilities, and participating in the Marlins Baseball Fantasy Camp for Kids.
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Brendan Donovan, St. Louis Cardinals
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St. Louis Cardinals’ Heart & Hustle winner in 2024, Brendan Donovan is a dedicated community supporter, actively contributing to charitable initiatives like the Cardinals Care Winter Warm-Up and silent auctions, which benefit local kids. However, his most significant contributions focus on supporting military personnel, veterans, and their families. As the son of a retired army colonel, Donovan has a deep appreciation for their sacrifices. He partnered with Team Red, White & Blue (Team RWB) to create a t-shirt called The Enemy, with all proceeds benefiting veterans’ mental and physical well-being. During Memorial Day weekend, he wore customized cleats to honor veterans, which he later signed and auctioned off for Team RWB.
Donovan also represented the Cardinals on Veterans Day, personally thanking his father and all veterans for their service, and voiced tributes for Memorial Day. Additionally, Brendan has supported the Veterans Community Project in St. Louis, a nonprofit helping homeless veterans, by donating and raising funds to furnish tiny homes for residents. Donovan also participated in the 9/11 Day Activation, packing dorm kits for Scott Air Force Base.
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Pete Fairbanks, Tampa Bay Rays
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Rays pitcher Pete Fairbanks and his wife, Lydia, have made a profound impact on their community through their charitable efforts. In memory of their daughter Ellis, who they lost to Turner Syndrome in early 2024, the Fairbanks family launched the Strikeouts for Ellis Campaign donating $100 for each strikeout Pete records, matched by the Rays Baseball Foundation. This initiative raised over $30,000 for the Turner Syndrome Foundation in 2024, aiming to bridge the gap between diagnosis and care while raising awareness for the genetic disorder. The Fairbanks family also organized fundraisers such as a ticket package and an online auction to further support the foundation.
In 2023, Pete and Lydia created Pete’s Sneaks to provide underrepresented students with new sneakers for the school year. In 2024, they expanded this initiative to support unaccompanied homeless youth, giving them sneakers and a Rays game experience. Pete is also deeply involved in community programs, including Rays Magic Mondays, where he greets participants from special needs leagues, and Tuesday’s Champion, where he interacts with children battling life-threatening illnesses. Pete further supported critically ill children through participation in Rays on the Runway and visits to the Ronald McDonald House, showcasing his dedication to giving back.
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Kyle Freeland, Colorado Rockies
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Colorado Rockies pitcher Kyle Freeland is deeply committed to giving back to his community, particularly through his work with Special Olympics Colorado (SOCO). Introduced to the organization by his host mom, Carmen Brown, during his time with the Grand Junction Rockies, Kyle has supported SOCO ever since. His involvement grew after attending the 2018 USA Games in Seattle, where he was inspired by the athletes’ passion and perseverance. Since then, Kyle has organized online raffles, offering unique baseball memorabilia, with all proceeds benefiting SOCO. He also volunteers at SOCO events, including the Fantasy Camp for Kids, and participates in Rockies-sponsored youth baseball clinics. In 2023, Kyle and his wife, Ashley, took part in their first Special Olympics Colorado Polar Plunge to support SOCO’s fundraising efforts.
Beyond his work with SOCO, the Freelands have also made a $3 million donation to their alma mater, the University of Evansville, to build a new baseball clubhouse. This gift is the largest in the university’s athletic history. Kyle takes pride in giving back to his hometown of Denver, embracing every opportunity to support local schools and community events, reflecting his deep sense of pride and generosity.
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Josh Hader, Houston Astros
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Houston Astros closer Josh Hader is dedicated to giving back to the community through various philanthropic efforts. Known for his leadership both on and off the field, Josh has consistently shown a strong commitment to supporting local causes. He has been heavily involved in charity events benefiting children, particularly focusing on organizations that support underprivileged youth and families in need.
One of his most notable contributions is working with his wife, Maria, to create a unique experience for foster children. Josh partnered with organizations like BEAR: Be A Resource for CPS Kids and Covenant House Texas to provide these children with passes to batting practice, free game tickets, and gift cards for concessions and the Team Store. For many of these kids, it was their first live sporting event, and Josh made sure it was a memorable day with an intimate Q&A session on the field. In addition to his work with foster children, Hader has supported local youth baseball programs, food drives, and volunteered at shelters. His community involvement also extends to mentoring young athletes and raising awareness for critical social issues.
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Steven Kwan, Cleveland Guardians
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Cleveland Guardians’ All-Star and Gold Glove outfielder Steven Kwan has built a strong connection with his community, blending his love for baseball and chess to inspire others. Three years ago, Kwan introduced his teammates to chess, fostering an environment of mental toughness and healthy competition. His passion for journaling and mental health exercises has become a cornerstone of his calm demeanor, both on and off the field. Kwan’s involvement with the Cleveland Metropolitan School District’s John Marshall High School Chess Club marked the beginning of a lasting relationship. Kwan formed friendships with the group, and they began playing chess regularly, with the students even attending Guardians games. Over time, Kwan organized fundraising events, including a spring training chess tournament, and donated the proceeds to support CMSD Chess Clubs.
Kwan’s community work extends beyond chess, as he mentors eighth-grade students at Hannah Gibbons School, discussing high school choices, career paths, and personal growth. His genuine care for others and ability to connect with young people has created a lasting impact and earned him the Guardians’ nomination for the 2024 Roberto Clemente Award. Kwan’s efforts, alongside his remarkable season on the field, have helped him foster a loyal fan base and contribute to the Guardians’ success.
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Pablo López, Minnesota Twins
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Since joining the Twins in 2023, Pablo’s enthusiasm for community service has made a lasting impact. His commitment earned him two Roberto Clemente Award nominations and distinguishes him as a true leader. Through his Pablo Day initiative, he raised awareness and support for three local nonprofits: Children’s Minnesota, Ruff Start Rescue, and Project Success. Inspired by his parents, Pablo honors Childhood Cancer Awareness Month by visiting patients at Children’s Minnesota and the University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital. His love for animals is evident in his support of Ruff Start Rescue, where he and his wife, Kaylee, adopted rescue dogs. Pablo is also passionate about education, regularly helping underserved students with back-to-school shopping and practicing foreign language skills.
Pablo’s volunteer efforts extend to hurricane relief in Fort Myers and mentoring youth through the Twins Community Fund, and his ability to speak multiple languages allows him to bring the clubhouse together and connect with players who come from so many places.
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Brandon Nimmo, New York Mets
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Brandon Nimmo is deeply committed to the Tri-State community and consistently exemplifies the Mets’ values. Known for his positive attitude, he engages with fans, families, and kids, always taking time to sign autographs and connect with others. In 2024, he launched his Nimmo’s 9 initiative to support and empower local community members. Through this initiative, Brandon meets with diverse groups such as the elderly, youth in foster care, military and first responders, and underserved youth. He provides tickets, swag, and personal interaction with these groups before Mets home games. In the first season of this initiative, Brandon welcomed organizations like the Child Center of New York, DYCD Fatherhood Initiative, Dancing Dreams, Long Island Beep Baseball, and PS 69 teachers.
Additionally, Brandon surprises Little Leaguers during the summer, playing games and encouraging sportsmanship. He donates game-worn materials to benefit various charities through the Amazin’ Mets Foundation and has participated in the Mets Holiday Party for Kids, dressing as Santa to hand out gifts.
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Marcus Semien, Texas Rangers
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Three-time All-Star and five-time Heart and Hustle Award winner Marcus Semien of the Texas Rangers has become deeply involved with the Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation and Youth Academy, where he serves as a role model for young athletes from diverse backgrounds. Marcus has actively participated in the Annual Thanksgiving Distribution, providing over two hundred dinners to local families, and attended the Rangers Foundation’s MLK Day of Service in 2023. He also partnered with the Astros on Jackie Robinson Day to mentor young athletes.
Along with his wife, Tarah, Marcus has underwritten The Semien Family Food Distribution, providing over 1,500 boxes of fresh produce and shelf-stable goods to Academy athletes during the summer. He has served as the Nike RBI Ambassador, offering tips and securing grants for the Academy, and participated in the Players Alliance’s Equip the Future events. Additionally, Marcus and his father, Damien, engage with parents and student-athletes through monthly Town Hall Meetings on topics like financial literacy, social media, and mental wellness. Marcus also hosts workshops through ETHOS Village, a character development program focused on identity, self-value, and making positive decisions.
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Tarik Skubal, Detroit Tigers
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American League Cy Young winner and All-Star Tarik Skubal of the Detroit Tigers has made a significant impact off the field in Detroit through his charitable efforts. In 2024, he and his wife, Jessica, donated to the Detroit Tigers Foundation and Alternatives for Girls, an organization that empowers homeless and at-risk young women. Their donation supports the Dr. Maya Angelou Village housing project, which provides affordable housing for survivors of domestic violence. The funds specifically cover Welcome Home Baskets, providing essential supplies for residents of the twenty-three units designated for Alternatives for Girls. In addition to this donation, Tarik and Jessica visited the Dr. Maya Angelou Village in August to further support the initiative.
Tarik is an active contributor to the Tigers Foundation, which has awarded millions in grants and scholarships since 2005. He also participates in the Tigers Autographs for a Cause program, raising funds for both the Tigers Foundation and his hometown Little League in Kingman, Arizona. Tarik’s efforts earned him the Tigers’ nomination for the 2024 Roberto Clemente Award.
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Brent Suter, Cincinnati Reds
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Brent Suter has been deeply involved in the Cincinnati community, engaging with fans and supporting various causes. Shortly after signing his contract in January, he participated in the annual Reds Caravan, traveling across Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, and West Virginia to connect with fans through interviews, Q&A sessions, and autograph signings. Suter frequently visits the P&G MLB Reds Youth Academy, helping out with events like the ribbon-cutting for a new synthetic infield and participating in the Reds Community Fund’s Fun at Bat event. He also took part in two Baseball Fantasy Camps for Kids and celebrated the Academy’s tenth anniversary.
Throughout the 2024 season, Suter made numerous fan appearances, including meet-and-greets, Make-a-Wish visits, and presenting a check for the ALS Triple Play program. In addition to his fan engagement, Suter is passionate about sustainability and has partnered with La Soupe to combat food waste. He co-hosted the first Sustainability Day event at Bond Hill Park, alongside former Reds outfielder Chris Dickerson. Suter has also supported nonprofits like Sleep in Heavenly Peace and the Joe Nuxhall Miracle League. A proud board member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Suter was nominated for the 2024 Roberto Clemente Award for his outstanding community service.
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Andrew Vaughn, Chicago White Sox
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White Sox first-basemen Andrew Vaughn is celebrated for his philanthropy and community involvement and was the team’s 2024 Roberto Clemente Award nominee. In 2024, he launched the Going, Going, Vaughn outreach program with his wife, Lexi, to support families impacted by abuse. They began by shopping for essentials and delivering gifts to children and families through the Glendale Advocacy Center. Vaughn also hosted an Opening Day party at La Rabida Children’s Hospital, delivering gifts and treats to over a hundred families and staff. In May, the Vaughns hosted foster moms from Brightpoint for a Mother’s Day celebration at the ballpark.
Vaughn continued his community efforts by visiting the Mercy Home for Boys & Girls, where he engaged with residents and treated them to ice cream. Later, he partnered with Digs with Dignity to provide a home makeover for a family displaced by a flood. Vaughn also held a Nike Home Run Derby for young athletes from the White Sox ACE and Team Teflon programs and helped create a dream bedroom for a teenager battling cancer.
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Patrick Wisdom, Chicago Cubs
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Patrick Wisdom’s commitment to supporting pediatric cancer research and the families affected by it began after meeting six-year-old Braxton Fuqua, who was battling medulloblastoma at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. During Braxton’s visit to the ballpark, Patrick spent time with him, leaving a lasting impact that fueled his mission to raise awareness and funds for St. Jude. After Braxton’s passing in 2019, Patrick designed merchandise to benefit the hospital and wore a St. Jude T-shirt in interviews to encourage donations. He also wore customized cleats at the 2022 Field of Dreams game and auctioned them off for St. Jude. As a regional St. Jude ambassador, Patrick raised funds to ensure families never receive bills for treatment, housing, or food.
Beyond his efforts for St. Jude, Patrick volunteers with Adam Wainwright’s MISSION 3:18 initiative, supporting organizations focused on homelessness and hunger. He also contributed to Cubs Charities through school visits, youth clinics, and fundraising events.
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Christian Yelich, Milwaukee Brewers
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Three-time All-Star and 2018 National League MVP Christian Yelich of the Milwaukee Brewers exemplifies the spirit of the Lou Gehrig Memorial Award through his unwavering dedication to philanthropy, service, and leadership. Deeply appreciative of military sacrifices, he partners annually with the Brewers Community Foundation annually to support local military organizations. Christian’s charitable efforts extend to children and families, particularly through surprise visits to the Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, where he brings joy to young patients. In response to California’s devastating wildfires, he co-founded California Strong in 2019, raising over $1 million to assist communities affected by natural disasters. This initiative has provided crucial financial support through celebrity softball games and auctions.
Since 2023, Christian has hosted the Christian Yelich Home Plate Charity Event in Milwaukee, generating significant funds for causes such as disadvantaged Little League teams, Team RWB, VISIT Milwaukee, and the Brewers Community Foundation. The 2025 event will support the ALS community through the Live Like Lou Foundation.
