The Pirates locker room was buzzing as Roberto Clemente stepped up to the podium. Pittsburgh had just won its fourth World Series, and The Great One was a big part of that victory. He’d batted .341, had 11 outfield assists and added the Game 7 go-ahead home run to top it off.
A cluster of microphones were thrust in his face, anticipating a message of exultation and fulfillment. But on one of Clemente’s proudest days, he chose to focus on a place 1,578 miles away.
“En el día más grande en mi vida, para los nenes la bendición mía, y que mis padres me den la bendición desde Puerto Rico.