NEW YORK – After nearly ten years, Salvador Perez made his return to the postseason this year. Despite his absence from the playoffs, his influence in both Venezuela and Kansas City has remained strong.

Perez, who has been an All-Star nine times and is a candidate for the Hall of Fame, was honored with the prestigious Roberto Clemente Award during a ceremony at Yankee Stadium before Game 3 of the World Series.

At 34 years old, Perez has previously been honored for his significant contributions off the field. Each winter, he provides food and medical assistance to families in his hometown of Valencia, Venezuela, and has funded thousands of surgeries for children affected by cleft lips. Notably, he played a crucial role in relief efforts in Colombia amid the COVID-19 pandemic, even entering the country on foot when vehicle access was restricted.

Additionally, he has donated $1 million to the Royals’ youth academy located in Kansas City.

Earlier this year, a video surfaced showing Perez enjoying a game of whiffle ball with kids in a Kansas City neighborhood, which highlighted his relatable nature and his commitment to giving back.

“If you dedicate just one day each month—two or three hours—to simply have fun and bring happiness to a child, they will always remember that,” Perez stated shortly before Game 3.

This award, previously known as the Commissioner’s Award, was renamed in honor of Roberto Clemente, the Pittsburgh Pirates great who tragically lost his life in a plane crash in December 1972 while delivering aid to earthquake victims in Nicaragua.

“You represent an amazing example of what baseball stands for, much like how my father embodied those values,” said Luis Clemente to Perez on Monday. “I remember hearing stories of him stopping after games to play catch with kids he saw outside. Watching you play whiffle ball sent the same message.”

“All Venezuelans and Latino players should feel immense pride in your achievement as this year’s award recipient.”