Teddy Ricketson Contributing writer Mon, October 26, 2026 at 5:13 PM UTC · 3 min read About Our Ads Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Major League Baseball announced that New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor has won the 2026 Roberto Clemente Award.
This award is given annually to the player "who best represents the game of Baseball through extraordinary character, community involvement, philanthropy, and positive contributions, both on and off the field.
Each team nominates one player, similar to the NFL's Walter Payton Man of the Year Award.
Lindor earned the award for his contributions to education, youth leadership, and disaster relief in Puerto Rico, according to a league statement. As part of Lindor's winning the award, Capital One will be donating $100,000 to the SEEN Foundation in Lindor's honor. The SEEN Foundation "empowers youth, create opportunities and foster positive community impact" among families dealing with disabilities.
Here are the other charitable efforts the league highlighted in its statement.
"Lindor's Leaders Program (est. 2026) — Launched in partnership with New Balance, this year-long leadership development initiative for students in Bayside High School's Sports Medicine Program focuses on mental health, communication, teamwork, and leadership. Lindor personally mentors participating students, equipping them with the confidence to lead in their schools and communities.
Support for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals — In 2026, Francisco partnered with Dairy Queen and Children's Miracle Network Hospitals for Miracle Treat Day, raising critical funds for local children's hospitals by donating directly to families in need $1 or more from every Blizzard Treat sold.
Transformative Commitment to Education — A proud graduate of Montverde Academy, Lindor has donated more than $1 million since 2020 to build Lindor Hall, a two-story middle school building featuring state-of-the-art science and technology labs. He also established the Francisco Lindor Scholarship Fund to provide financial aid for students, remaining personally involved through mentorship, career guidance, annual PLAY BALL youth events, and equipment donations for the school's baseball team.
Disaster Relief and Advocacy for Puerto Rico — Deeply committed to his native Puerto Rico, Francisco provided essential financial support following Hurricanes Maria and Fiona, restored athletic facilities in his hometown of Caguas, and hosted youth clinics. He continues to partner with organizations including Team Rubicon, the Amazin' Mets Foundation, Players for the Planet, and Rescate Playas Borinquen for ongoing recovery and environmental conservation.
Serving the Queens Community — Through an annual back-to-school initiative with New Balance, Lindor provides hundreds of students each year with backpacks and essential school supplies. Now in its third season, Lindor Smile Tuesdays welcomes youth organizations to Citi Field for educational experiences promoting dental health, wellness, self-confidence, and mentorship.
Growing the Game — Passionate about making baseball accessible and inclusive, Francisco regularly participates in the Mets' Clinic for Champions with Special Olympics Florida and hosts the Lindor Clinic for Kids for local youth leagues and Boys & Girls Clubs."
Lindor is the fifth Mets player to win the award. He joins Curtis Granderson (2016), Carlos Delgado (2006), Al Leiter (2000), and Gary Carter (1989).
The most recent winners of the award are Lindor, Mookie Betts, Salvador Perez, Aaron Judge, and Justin Turner over the last five seasons.
The award was originally named the Commissioner's Award when it began in 1971. It was renamed the Roberto Clemente Award just two years later for Clemente, who died on New Year's Eve in 1972 while on a flight delivering supplies to earthquake victims in Nicaragua.
Source: Sports
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