Andy LaRoche nominated for the Roberto Clemente award

LaRoche may not be the Pirates starting third baseman anymore, but he is making a much bigger impact off the field.

LaRoche’s charity work, here in Pittsburgh, has nominated him for the Clemente award.

“The Clemente award recognizes the player who best exemplifies the game of baseball, sportsmanship, community involvement and the individual’s contribution to his team.”

“It’s obviously an honor,” LaRoche said of the nomination. “I don’t feel like I’ve done anything to deserve it.”

LaRoche–who works primarily with kids with Down syndrome– said he has felt a connection with them since high school.

“I’ve always had a soft spot in my heart for people with it,” LaRoche said. “I enjoy being around them and want to do whatever I can for to give them a special experience.”

“Bringing kids out, I enjoy it just as much as they do,” LaRoche said. “It’s something that I hope I’ll be able to do with kids as long as we keep finding kids that want to keep coming out and hang with us. If so, I’m more than happy to hang for a little while.”

LaRoche has many events throughout the season including: private meet-and-greet in the dugout before games,  teaching baseball fundamentals to the children, hosting a miracle league program and purchases tickets and consession cupons for all his guests.

Fans have until October 8th to vote for LaRoche, or any of the other 29 nominees. You can vote for Andy LaRoche here.