SEATTLE – To Hector Santiago, being nominated for the Roberto Clemente award carries a little extra meaning because of the player whose name it bears.
Santiago is of Puerto Rican descent, even though he was born in New Jersey. Clemente was unquestionably the greatest major leaguer from Puerto Rico. He was known for his community service, which is why an award for off the field work bears his name.
“It’s an honor for me, being Puerto Rican,” Santiago said. “I have tried to follow up what (Clemente) did.”
Clemente died in a plane crash while taking supplies to earthquake victims.