Undaunted by cancer, Carrasco wins award
Carlos Carrasco didn’t let cancer stop him from helping others. It inspired him to do more.
The Cleveland Indians’ pitcher, who was diagnosed with a treatable form of leukemia in May, has won the 2019 Roberto Clemente Award. It is given annually by Major League Baseball to recognize a player’s high character, community involvement and positive contributions.
Despite being sick and sidelined for months during this season, Carrasco’s positive attitude never wavered and his efforts never slowed. The 32yearold frequently visited children fighting the disease at area hospitals while receiving medical treatment for his own illness.
“It’s something that I love to do, helping a lot of kids and families,” said Carrasco, a father of five.
Each of baseball’s 30 teams submitted a nominee for the Clemente Award. Carrasco was chosen by a panel that included Commissioner Rob Manfred, Clemente’s widow, Vera, and media members.
Carrasco was presented with the award Friday.
Astros probe may expand: Major League Baseball is conducting a wider probe of the Houston Astros that goes beyond the assistant general manager who was fired this week for inappropriate behavior, concerned about the team’s initial denial.
Houston terminated Brandon Taubman on Thursday, saying he directed inappropriate comments at female reporters during a clubhouse celebration following Game 6 of the AL Championship Series last weekend.
“There are aspects of this that go beyond the incident that’s been dealt with in terms of the employment of the individual,” baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred said Friday. “We need to gather additional facts.”
Trump critic’s big pitch: A day after President Donald Trump said he plans to attend Game 5 of the World Series, the Washington Nationals announced the ceremonial first pitch at that game will be thrown by chef Jose Andres, a vocal critic of Trump.
Andres, a prominent local restaurant owner and humanitarian, has repeatedly opposed Trump’s immigration policies and his administration’s response to Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico. He has also tangled with Trump in court.