Roberto Clemente was a Puerto Rican professional baseball player known for his exceptional skills as a right fielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates. His untimely death at the age of 38 shocked the baseball world. In a groundbreaking decision, the National Baseball Hall of Fame amended its eligibility criteria to allow players deceased for a minimum of six months. This paved the way for Clemente's induction in 1973, making him the first Caribbean and Latin American player to receive this prestigious honor.
1900: The beginning of Modern Major League Baseball
The year 1900 marked the beginning of Modern Major League Baseball, the era during which Roberto Clemente hit his walk-off inside-the-park grand slam.
August 18, 1934: Roberto Clemente is born
On August 18, 1934, Roberto Enrique Clemente Walker was born in Carolina, Puerto Rico.
1948: The Pirates last winning season for a decade
The 1948 season was the last winning season for the Pittsburgh Pirates for a decade, until 1958.
October 9, 1952: Clemente signs with the Cangrejeros de Santurce
On October 9, 1952, at the age of 18, Roberto Clemente signed a professional baseball contract with the Cangrejeros de Santurce of the Puerto Rican Professional Baseball League.
February 19, 1954: Clemente signs with the Brooklyn Dodgers
On February 19, 1954, Roberto Clemente signed a contract with the Brooklyn Dodgers.
June 1, 1954: Pirates scout discovers Clemente
On June 1, 1954, while scouting another player, Pirates scout Clyde Sukeforth discovered Clemente during batting practice and inquired about his availability.
July 25, 1954: Clemente hits his first North American home run
Roberto Clemente hit the first home run of his North American career on July 25, 1954, a walk-off home run in extra innings.
November 22, 1954: Clemente is drafted by the Pirates
On November 22, 1954, Roberto Clemente was the first selection of the Rule 5 draft by the Pittsburgh Pirates.
1954: The Pittsburgh Pirates draft Clemente
After being signed and subsequently released by the Brooklyn Dodgers, Roberto Clemente was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1954.
1954: Clemente is in a car accident
Roberto Clemente was in an auto accident in 1954, which caused back problems that were later alleviated by his training in the Marines.
April 17, 1955: Clemente makes his debut with the Pirates
On April 17, 1955, Roberto Clemente made his debut with the Pittsburgh Pirates, wearing the number 13.
July 25, 1956: Clemente hits a walk-off inside-the-park grand slam
On July 25, 1956, Roberto Clemente hit a walk-off inside-the-park grand slam, becoming the first and only modern MLB player to achieve this.
September 1958: Clemente joins the Marines
In September 1958, Roberto Clemente joined the United States Marine Corps Reserve.
1958: The Pirates have their first winning season in 10 years
In 1958, the Pittsburgh Pirates had their first winning season since 1948.
1958: Clemente begins playing winter ball
Starting in 1958, Roberto Clemente began playing winter ball for teams in the Liga de Béisbol Profesional de Puerto Rico during the MLB offseason.
1959: Start of Consistent All-Star Selections
From 1959 onward, Roberto Clemente consistently earned All-Star selections throughout his career, solidifying his reputation as one of the game's best players.
1959: Clemente requests early release from the Marines for spring training
In 1959, while still fulfilling his Marine Corps Reserve duty, Roberto Clemente requested an early release from Camp Lejeune in order to participate in spring training with the Pirates.
1959: Start of Consistent All-Star and Gold Glove Runs
Roberto Clemente's exceptional performance on the field earned him All-Star selections every season he played in the 1960s, with the exception of 1968. He also achieved an impressive streak of twelve consecutive Gold Glove Awards, beginning in 1961, solidifying his reputation as both an offensive and defensive powerhouse.
May 1960: Clemente's First NL Player of the Month Award
Clemente's exceptional performance in May 1960 earned him his first National League Player of the Month Award, marking an early highlight in his illustrious career.
1960: Clemente becomes the first Caribbean and Latin American player to win a World Series as a starter
In 1960, Roberto Clemente became the first player from the Caribbean and Latin America to win a World Series as a starting position player.
1960: Clemente's Stellar Season with the Pirates
In 1960, Roberto Clemente showcased his exceptional skills, leading the league with a .353 batting average early in the season. His outstanding performance earned him the National League's Player of the Month award in May. Clemente's season was marked by a memorable game on August 5th at Forbes Field, where he made an extraordinary catch while crashing into the right-field wall, preventing a potential extra-base hit by Willie Mays. The Pirates went on to win the game 1-0, but Clemente's incredible play resulted in an injury that required stitches and a brief layoff. The Pirates went on to win the World Series that year.
1960: Tying Honus Wagner's Record
In 1972, Roberto Clemente achieved a significant milestone by tying Honus Wagner's record for games played as a Pittsburgh Pirate with 2,433 games. This accomplishment solidified Clemente's place in Pirates history alongside one of the franchise's most iconic figures.
1961: First Batting Title and Start of Gold Glove Streak
Roberto Clemente achieved a significant milestone in 1961 by winning his first NL batting title. This marked the beginning of an incredible run of defensive prowess, earning him twelve consecutive Gold Glove Awards from 1961 onward.
1961: Clemente wins his first batting title
In 1961, Roberto Clemente won the first of his four National League batting titles.
1961: All-Star Game Heroics and First Gold Glove
In 1961, Roberto Clemente was named the starting right fielder for the National League in the first of two All-Star games that year. He had an impressive performance, going 2 for 4 with a triple and a sacrifice fly, contributing to the NL's 5-4 victory. Clemente also received his first Gold Glove Award that season, recognizing his exceptional defensive skills.
1961: Clemente and Cepeda Greeted by Adoring Fans in Puerto Rico
After the 1961 season, Roberto Clemente and Orlando Cepeda, a fellow baseball star, returned to Puerto Rico to a hero's welcome. They were greeted by an enthusiastic crowd of 18,000 people, demonstrating their immense popularity and the pride they brought to their home country.
1962: Clemente takes a break from winter ball
Roberto Clemente did not play winter ball in the 1962-1963 offseason.
1962: End of Era with Two All-Star Games
The practice of having two All-Star games each season, which began in 1959, came to an end in 1962. Roberto Clemente played in both All-Star games during those years, showcasing his consistent excellence on the field.
September 1964: Clemente completes his service in the Marine Corps Reserve
In September 1964, Roberto Clemente completed his service in the Marine Corps Reserve.
November 14, 1964: Roberto Clemente Marries Vera Zabala
Roberto Clemente married Vera Zabala on November 14, 1964, at San Fernando Church in Carolina, Puerto Rico. This marked the beginning of their enduring love story, one that would see them through the highs and lows of Clemente's remarkable career and his unwavering commitment to humanitarian work.
1964: Second Batting Title
Roberto Clemente won his second NL batting title in 1964, solidifying his place as one of the league's premier hitters.
1964: Clemente claims his second batting title
Roberto Clemente won his second National League batting title in 1964.
1965: Birth of Roberto Clemente Jr.
Roberto and Vera Clemente welcomed their first son, Roberto Clemente Jr., in 1965.
1965: Clemente skips winter ball
Roberto Clemente did not play winter ball during the 1965-1966 offseason.
1965: Third Batting Title
Roberto Clemente continued his dominance at the plate in 1965, securing his third NL batting title.
1965: Clemente wins his third batting title
In 1965, Roberto Clemente won his third National League batting title.
1965: Injury and Resilience Mark Clemente's Season
During the 1965 season, Roberto Clemente faced challenges due to a thigh injury sustained while working at home. Despite the injury and subsequent surgery, Clemente was determined to play and even participated in the league's all-star game. However, his injury limited his playing time and affected his performance in the first half of the season. He made a strong comeback in the latter half of the season with a .340 batting average upon returning to the regular starting lineup and appeared in the All-Star Game on July 15th as a pinch hitter.
1966: Birth of Luis Roberto Clemente
In 1966, Roberto and Vera Clemente celebrated the birth of their second son, Luis Roberto Clemente.
1966: Clemente Wins the NL MVP Award
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1966, Roberto Clemente was honored with the prestigious National League Most Valuable Player Award, a testament to his remarkable skills and impact on the game.
1966: MVP Season
Roberto Clemente had a stellar season in 1966, earning the NL MVP award. He achieved a .317 batting average with a career-high of 29 home runs and 119 RBIs, solidifying his status as one of the league's most valuable players.
1966: Clemente is named National League MVP
Roberto Clemente was named the National League's Most Valuable Player in 1966, the first player from the Caribbean and Latin America to achieve this.
May 1967: Clemente's Second NL Player of the Month Award
Clemente's dominance on the field continued as he secured his second NL Player of the Month Award in May 1967, solidifying his reputation as one of baseball's premier players.
1967: Clemente wins his fourth and final batting title
1967 saw Roberto Clemente win his fourth and final National League batting title.
1967: Fourth Batting Title and Recognition as Baseball's Best
Roberto Clemente achieved a remarkable feat in 1967 by winning his fourth NL batting title. His exceptional performance led to widespread recognition as the best player in baseball, as evidenced by an informal poll conducted by Sport Magazine at baseball's Winter Meetings. Clemente's dominance on the field was undeniable.
1968: A Rare Dip in Performance
In 1968, Roberto Clemente experienced an uncharacteristic dip in his batting average, falling short of the .300 mark for the only time in his career after 1959. Despite this outlier season, Clemente's consistency and excellence were evident throughout his career, making him a true icon of the game.
1968: Clemente sits out winter ball
Roberto Clemente did not play winter ball during the 1968-1969 offseason.
July 1969: Clemente's Third NL Player of the Month Award
Clemente's consistent excellence was on display once again in July 1969 when he received his third NL Player of the Month Award, showcasing his enduring talent and impact on the game.
1969: Clemente Challenges Anglicized Name
In an attempt to make Roberto Clemente more relatable to American audiences, sportswriters and even baseball cards began referring to him as "Bob" or "Bobby," a practice that persisted until 1969. Clemente strongly opposed this Anglicization of his name, viewing it as disrespectful to his Puerto Rican and Latino heritage. He consistently corrected reporters who used these nicknames during interviews, emphasizing the importance of respecting his identity.
1969: Birth of Roberto Enrique Clemente
The Clemente family expanded once more in 1969 with the birth of their third son, Roberto Enrique Clemente.
June 28, 1970: Emotional Farewell to Forbes Field
The 1970 season marked the end of an era for the Pittsburgh Pirates and Roberto Clemente as they bid farewell to Forbes Field, their home stadium. The Pirates played their final game at Forbes Field on June 28th, 1970, a bittersweet moment for Clemente, who had spent a significant portion of his life and career there. He expressed his sadness, stating, "I spent half my life there," reflecting the deep connection he felt to the historic ballpark.
July 24, 1970: Roberto Clemente Night at Three Rivers Stadium
On July 24, 1970, the Pittsburgh Pirates celebrated "Roberto Clemente Night" at their new home, Three Rivers Stadium. The event was a testament to Clemente's immense popularity and the adoration he received from fans, particularly those from his native Puerto Rico. Many fans traveled from Puerto Rico to attend the game, donning traditional attire to honor Clemente. During a special ceremony, he received a scroll bearing 300,000 signatures from his supporters in Puerto Rico. The event also served as a platform for philanthropy, as thousands of dollars were donated to charity at Clemente's request, showcasing his commitment to giving back to the community.
1970: A Season of Mixed Emotions
The 1970 season brought both triumph and hardship for Roberto Clemente. While the Pirates won the NL East pennant, they were defeated by the Cincinnati Reds. Off the field, Clemente faced tense situations during his time as manager of the Senadores. Additionally, his father, Melchor Clemente, faced health issues and underwent surgery, adding to the emotional toll of the year.
July 1971: Clemente's Premonition and Reflections on Life
During the 1971 All-Star Game festivities, broadcaster Richie Ashburn asked Clemente about when he might reach the 3,000-hit milestone. Clemente's response was both profound and eerie, suggesting a sense of foreboding about his future. He emphasized the uncertainty of life and acknowledged the possibility of not being alive to achieve further milestones.
November 1971: Plans for Clemente's Autobiography Revealed
In November 1971, news broke that Roberto Clemente was planning to release his as-told-to autobiography, generating significant anticipation among fans eager to gain insights into the life and career of the baseball star. Post-Gazette Sports Editor Al Abrams reported that Clemente was committed to ensuring the authenticity of his story by recording all interviews to maintain accuracy and control over his narrative.
1971: Clemente misses winter ball
Roberto Clemente did not play winter ball during the 1971-1972 offseason.
1971: Clemente wins the World Series MVP Award
Roberto Clemente was awarded the World Series Most Valuable Player Award in 1971, the first Caribbean and Latin American player to do so.
1971: World Series Championship and MVP Honors
In 1971, Roberto Clemente played a pivotal role in leading the Pittsburgh Pirates to a memorable World Series victory. The Pirates overcame a strong Baltimore Orioles team, winning the championship in seven games. Clemente's performance in the World Series was nothing short of exceptional. He maintained an impressive .414 batting average, hit a crucial home run in the decisive seventh game, and showcased his defensive prowess throughout the series. His outstanding contributions earned him the well-deserved title of World Series Most Valuable Player.
1971: Clemente Leads the Pirates to World Series Victory and Earns World Series MVP
1971 marked a pinnacle of success for Roberto Clemente and the Pittsburgh Pirates. Clemente played a pivotal role in leading the team to a World Series championship and was deservedly named the World Series Most Valuable Player, etching his name in baseball lore.
March 1972: Progress on Clemente's Autobiography Confirmed
By March 1972, further details emerged about the progress of Roberto Clemente's autobiography. It was confirmed that a writer had been hired to collaborate with him, and significant progress had been made on the project. Fans were eager to learn more about Clemente's life, career, and perspectives, but sadly, fate intervened before the book could be published.
October 11, 1972: Clemente's Final Game
On October 11, 1972, Roberto Clemente stepped onto the field for the last time in his illustrious career. The game, held at Cincinnati's Riverfront Stadium, marked the end of the 1972 NLCS, with the Pirates ultimately falling short of the championship. Clemente, alongside Bill Mazeroski, represented the last remaining players from the Pirates' 1960 World Series championship team, making this final game even more poignant.
December 23, 1972: Managua Earthquake and Clemente's Relief Efforts
On December 23, 1972, a devastating earthquake struck Managua, Nicaragua. Roberto Clemente, who had visited Managua just weeks prior, immediately took action to organize emergency relief flights. However, he was deeply troubled to discover that the aid intended for the earthquake victims had been diverted by corrupt officials. Determined to ensure the aid reached those in need, Clemente made the fateful decision to personally accompany the fourth relief flight.
1972: Clemente dies in a plane crash
In 1972, Roberto Clemente, at the age of 38, died in a plane crash while en route to deliver aid to victims of the Nicaragua earthquake.
1972: Clemente misses winter ball
Roberto Clemente did not play winter ball during the 1972-1973 offseason.
1972: Clemente wins his 12th straight Gold Glove Award
Roberto Clemente was awarded his twelfth consecutive Gold Glove Award in 1972.
1972: Battling Through Injuries to Continued Excellence
The 1972 season presented challenges for Roberto Clemente as he battled through injuries. Despite these setbacks, he remained a force to be reckoned with, playing in 102 games while maintaining a respectable .312 batting average. Clemente's perseverance and dedication to the game were evident as he earned his fifteenth All-Star selection and secured his twelfth consecutive Gold Glove Award, further solidifying his status as a true legend of the sport.
December 31, 1972: Roberto Clemente dies in a plane crash
On December 31, 1972, at the age of 38, Roberto Clemente died in a plane crash while en route to deliver aid to victims of the Nicaragua earthquake.
March 1973: Unpublished Manuscript and Clemente's Autobiography
In a poignant turn of events, the writer who had been working on Roberto Clemente's autobiography, revealed that the completed manuscript had failed to secure a publisher, leaving the project unrealized. Despite claims of having exclusive taped interviews with Clemente, the book never reached the public, leaving fans to wonder about the untold stories and insights it might have contained.
March 20, 1973: Clemente's Posthumous Induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame
On March 20, 1973, the Baseball Writers' Association of America held a special election to consider Roberto Clemente for the Hall of Fame. In a testament to his enduring legacy and the profound impact of his untimely passing, they voted to waive the traditional waiting period. Clemente was posthumously elected with an overwhelming majority, receiving 92.7% of the votes.
April 6, 1973: Pittsburgh Pirates Retire Clemente's Number 21
As a tribute to their legendary outfielder, the Pittsburgh Pirates retired Roberto Clemente's number 21 on April 6, 1973, just a few months after his election to the Hall of Fame. This gesture solidified Clemente's place as an icon of the franchise and a revered figure in baseball history.
1973: Roberto Clemente is posthumously inducted into the Hall of Fame
In 1973, Roberto Clemente was posthumously inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame. This made him the first Caribbean and the first Latin-American player to be honored in the Hall of Fame.
1973: Clemente Receives Posthumous Presidential and Congressional Honors
In 1973, Roberto Clemente was posthumously recognized for his extraordinary character and humanitarian efforts with two of the nation's highest civilian awards. President Richard Nixon bestowed upon him the Presidential Citizens Medal, while Congress honored him with the Congressional Gold Medal.
1973: Coliseo Roberto Clemente Opens in San Juan
In 1973, the Coliseo Roberto Clemente, a multi-purpose arena in San Juan, Puerto Rico, was inaugurated. The arena's name served as a testament to Clemente's enduring popularity and the immense pride he brought to Puerto Rico.
1973: Commissioner's Award Renamed in Honor of Roberto Clemente
In 1973, Major League Baseball took a significant step to honor Roberto Clemente's legacy of compassion and community service. They renamed the prestigious Commissioner's Award to the Roberto Clemente Award. This award is presented annually to a player who demonstrates outstanding baseball skills while also exhibiting a deep commitment to community involvement. It serves as a lasting tribute to Clemente's enduring impact both on and off the field.
1974: Harlem River State Park Renamed in Clemente's Honor
In 1974, Harlem River State Park in Morris Heights, The Bronx, New York City, was renamed Roberto Clemente State Park in his honor, a testament to his impact that transcended baseball and resonated deeply with communities beyond Pittsburgh.
August 17, 1984: United States Postal Service Issues Roberto Clemente Stamp
On August 17, 1984, the United States Postal Service issued a commemorative postage stamp honoring Roberto Clemente. Designed by Juan Lopez-Bonilla, the stamp featured Clemente wearing a Pittsburgh Pirates baseball cap with the Puerto Rican flag prominently displayed in the background. This gesture served as a lasting tribute to Clemente's legacy as a baseball legend and humanitarian.
1994: Statue of Clemente Erected at Three Rivers Stadium
In 1994, the Pittsburgh Pirates unveiled a statue of Roberto Clemente at Three Rivers Stadium, their home ballpark at the time, as a tribute to his legacy and impact on the franchise and city. This event coincided with the 1994 Major League Baseball All-Star Game, further amplifying the recognition of Clemente's stature within the sport.
1999: Clemente Ranked Among Baseball's Greatest
In 1999, Clemente's enduring legacy was affirmed when The Sporting News placed him at number 20 on their list of the 100 Greatest Baseball Players. He earned the distinction of being the highest-ranking Latin American and Caribbean player on the list. That same year, he was also recognized as a finalist for the Major League Baseball All-Century Team, further cementing his place among the game's elite.
2000: Estadio Roberto Clemente Opens in Carolina
In Clemente's hometown of Carolina, Puerto Rico, a new baseball stadium, Estadio Roberto Clemente, was opened in 2000. Naming the stadium in Clemente's honor further cemented his legacy in his hometown and provided a lasting tribute to his impact on baseball in Puerto Rico.
2001: Clemente's Statue Relocated to PNC Park
When the Pittsburgh Pirates moved into their new home, PNC Park, in 2001, Roberto Clemente's statue was carefully relocated to a prominent position outside the park's center field gates. This move ensured that Clemente's legacy would continue to be celebrated and remembered by fans at the Pirates' new home.
2002: Vera Clemente Reveals Roberto's Premonitions
In a 2002 interview for ESPN's SportsCentury, Clemente's widow, Vera, shared that Roberto had expressed premonitions about his early death on several occasions. This revelation shed light on Clemente's mindset and the weight of his words in earlier years.
2002: Major League Baseball Establishes Roberto Clemente Day
Thirty years after Roberto Clemente's tragic death, in 2002, Major League Baseball took a significant step to honor his legacy and contributions to the sport and humanity. They designated September 15th as "Roberto Clemente Day," a day to celebrate his life, career, and the values he embodied both on and off the field.
2003: Clemente Inducted into the United States Marine Corps Sports Hall of Fame
Clemente's athletic achievements and character earned him recognition beyond the realm of baseball. In 2003, he was posthumously inducted into the United States Marine Corps Sports Hall of Fame, a testament to his service in the Marine Corps Reserve and his embodiment of their core values.
2003: Clemente Awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom
In 2003, Roberto Clemente's enduring legacy of humanitarianism and contributions to society were further recognized when he was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President George W. Bush. This prestigious award is the highest civilian honor bestowed by the United States government and highlighted Clemente's profound impact beyond the realm of sports.
2005: Clemente Named to Major League Baseball's Latino Legends Team
In 2005, Major League Baseball paid tribute to Roberto Clemente's enduring legacy and the impact of Latino players in the sport by naming him to the MLB's Latino Legends Team. This selection celebrated Clemente's remarkable career and his status as a trailblazer for future generations of Latino baseball players.
2007: Clemente Selected for the All-Time Rawlings Gold Glove Team
In 2007, on the 50th anniversary of the prestigious Rawlings Gold Glove Award, Roberto Clemente received a remarkable honor. He was selected for the All-Time Rawlings Gold Glove Team, recognizing his exceptional defensive skills throughout his career and solidifying his place among the greatest fielders in baseball history.
2010: Clemente Inducted into the Hispanic Heritage Baseball Museum Hall of Fame
Roberto Clemente's significant contributions to baseball and his enduring legacy within the Hispanic community were further recognized in 2010 when he was posthumously inducted into the Hispanic Heritage Baseball Museum Hall of Fame.
2012: Puerto Rico Professional Baseball League Renamed in Clemente's Honor
In 2012, the Puerto Rico Professional Baseball League (LBPPR) took a significant step to honor their native son by renaming the league to Liga de Béisbol Profesional Roberto Clemente. Additionally, they permanently retired the number 21, ensuring that Clemente's legacy would forever be intertwined with baseball in Puerto Rico.
2013: Statue of Clemente Unveiled in Roberto Clemente State Park
Forty years after Roberto Clemente's election to the Baseball Hall of Fame, in 2013, a statue in his honor was unveiled at Roberto Clemente State Park in The Bronx, New York City. Notably, it was the first statue honoring a Puerto Rican to be erected in New York City, marking a significant moment in recognizing the contributions and impact of Puerto Ricans in the city.
2015: Clemente Inducted into the Caribbean Baseball Hall of Fame
In recognition of his remarkable career and profound impact on baseball in the Caribbean, Roberto Clemente was posthumously inducted into the Caribbean Baseball Hall of Fame in 2015. This honor highlighted Clemente's status as an icon throughout the Caribbean and his lasting influence on the sport in the region.
November 16, 2019: Passing of Vera Clemente
Vera Clemente, the beloved widow of Roberto Clemente, passed away on November 16, 2019, at the age of 78. Vera played an instrumental role in continuing her husband's legacy of humanitarian work following his tragic death.
2020: Clemente's Enduring Legacy in Baseball
In 2020, The Athletic, a prominent sports publication, undertook the task of ranking the top 100 baseball players of all time. Acclaimed sportswriter Joe Posnanski meticulously compiled the list, and Roberto Clemente secured an impressive position at number 40, underscoring his enduring legacy and impact on the sport.
2022: Clemente Recognized as a National Hero of Puerto Rico
In 2022, the government of Puerto Rico took the historic step of formally recognizing Roberto Clemente as a "prócer," which translates to "national hero." This designation solidified Clemente's position as one of the most revered figures in Puerto Rican history, acknowledging his profound impact on the island both through his athletic achievements and humanitarian efforts.