Kyle Freeland Nominated for Clemente Award
The Colorado Rockies pitcher earned his fifth consecutive nomination for his humanitarian work.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Baseball
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Colorado Rockies pitcher Kyle Freeland has been named the team nominee for the 2026 Roberto Clemente Award. This marks the fifth consecutive year Freeland has received the nomination for his long-standing commitment to humanitarian efforts.
Why it matters
The annual award recognizes MLB players who best represent the game through extraordinary character, community involvement, philanthropy, and positive contributions on and off the field. Freeland's consistent advocacy for Special Olympics Colorado remains a cornerstone of his community service.
Kyle Freeland is in his 10th season with the Colorado Rockies and has supported the Special Olympics since 2014. He raises funds for the organization by raffling game-used items and hosting medalists at Coors Field.
The players
Kyle Freeland
He is a long-tenured starting pitcher for the Colorado Rockies who has been recognized repeatedly for his community service.
Jake Burger
He is the Roberto Clemente Award nominee for the Texas Rangers and founder of a foundation supporting individuals with Down syndrome.
The details
Freeland and Texas Rangers nominee Jake Burger visited GiGi's Playhouse Denver on May 19, 2026, to host children with Down syndrome. The work of the Jake Burger Family Foundation is inspired by the birth of Burger's daughter, Penelope, who was born with Down syndrome in 2024.
Timeline
2014: Freeland began his involvement with the Special Olympics.
2019: Freeland attended a national Special Olympics event in Seattle.
October 25, 2024: Penelope Burger was born.
May 19, 2026: Freeland and Burger visited GiGi's Playhouse Denver.
2026 World Series: The award winner will be honored.
Season Trajectory
The nomination highlights Freeland's tenure in Denver as he approaches free agency following the 2026 season. It solidifies his status as a key community representative for the Rockies regardless of his upcoming contract status.
Freeland continues to serve as a high-profile figure for the organization as he plays out the final year of his current stint with the team. His long-term engagement with local charities provides a consistent charitable presence at Coors Field.
The takeaway
The Roberto Clemente Award highlights the importance of athlete involvement in local community support systems. Fans can emulate this commitment by engaging with local chapters of organizations like the Special Olympics.
Further reading
For more on local Major League action, visit the Baseball section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by MLB.
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