NEW YORK (SNN-TV) – The No. 21 was seen on jerseys across Major League Baseball on Wednesday, the start of National Hispanic Heritage Month.
Puerto Rican players and on-field staff had the opportunity to wear island legend Roberto Clemente’s number last season, and were allowed to do so again this year. Each Sept. 15 going forward will be known as Roberto Clemente Day, per a league announcement.
Players who have won the Roberto Clemente Award, “the most prestigious individual honor for major leaguers” and recognizes philanthropic efforts, were eligible to wear No. 21. All of the Pittsburgh Pirates, the team Clemente spent his entire 18-year career with, wore No. 21 as well.
Players on active rosters who have won the award include fellow Albert Pujols (Dodgers), Clayton Kershaw (Dodgers), Carlos Carrasco (Mets) and Anthony Rizzo (Yankees).