Blue Jays’ Kevin Pillar nominated for 2018 Roberto Clemente Award

Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Kevin Pillar. (Michael Dwyer/AP)

Kevin Pillar is the Toronto Blue Jays‘ nominee for the 2018 Roberto Clemente Award.

The award is given annually to “a player who best represents the game of baseball through extraordinary character, community involvement, philanthropy and positive contributions, both on and off the field.”

“I am very proud of the great philanthropic efforts of our players,” said commissioner Rob Manfred in a release. “Through wide-ranging work and actions, these 30 nominees honour Roberto Clemente’s legacy of being exemplary community ambassadors. Roberto’s unwavering humanitarian spirit continues to inspire our players and fans and serves as a positive example for future generations.”

The winner will be selected by a panel that includes Manfred, representatives from MLB-affiliated networks, as well as Vera Clemente (the late Roberto’s wife and MLB Goodwill Ambassador). Fans will also have a vote in determining who takes home the prestigious honour.

Pillar was previously nominated for the award in 2016. On the field, the 29-year-old outfielder is batting .251/.280/.414 with 11 home runs and 51 RBIs.

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