Jimmy Rollins a Roberto Clemente Award co-winner

Jul 18, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies shortstop Jimmy Rollins (11) signs autographs before a game against the Atlanta Braves at Turner Field. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

Philadelphia Phillies shortstop Jimmy Rollins has been given baseball’s top honor for humanitarian efforts, the Roberto Clemente Award.

Rollins and Paul Konerko of the Chicago White Sox tied in votes and were named co-winners.  This is the first time in the history of the award there have been two winners.  The award winners were acknowledged prior to game three of the World Series.

The two main charities Rollins supports are J-Roll’s Aces and J-Roll’s Readers which create positive opportunities for underprivileged youth.  Rollins’ efforts surely don’t stop there, however, as he has his hand in many programs such as the SHARE Food Program.

“You don’t go out and try to win an award.  You go with a good heart,” said Rollins after winning.

The Roberto Clemente Award, which is named after the late Pittsburgh Pirates outfielder, is voted on by fans and a panel that includes Vera Clemente.  The widow of Roberto Clemente serves as an MLB Goodwill Ambassador.  Rollins says having her as a part of the process made it all the more special.

This is the third time a Phillies player has been named the winner of this prestigious award and the first time since 1986 when Garry Maddox won.  Greg Luzinski was the other Phillies winner in 1978.