Retiring Chicago White Sox captain Paul Konerko was named the co-winner of the Roberto Clemente Award along with Philadelphia Phillies shortstop Jimmy Rollins on Friday before Game 3 of the World Series.
Konerko and Rollins are the first co-winners of the award, which is given to major league players who make positive contributions to the game and their communities on and off the field. Konerko is also the first Sox player to win the award.
He and his wife, Jennifer, along with Jim and Andrea Thome, founded in 2007 the Bring Me Home Campaign, which supports foster children and their families.
“Jennifer and I are truly humbled to receive an award named after such a special player and person,” Konerko said in a Sox release. “It’s also a great honor to share this award with Jimmy Rollins, who is someone I have always respected for his approach to the game. This award caps off what has been a special final season for me.”
Sox chairman Jerry Reinsdorf said in a release that the award was a “fitting” cap to Konerko’s 18-year major league career.
“Throughout his White Sox career, Paul was a leader of our team both on the field and in the community,” Reinsdorf said. “A consummate role model for all professional athletes, Paul thrilled millions of fans with his heroics on the diamond and impacted the lives of countless more through his community efforts with Jennifer. Together, they have changed lives forever, and that is a very special legacy to leave behind.”
