Why Griffin Conine is Marlins' nominee for 2025 Roberto Clemente Award

As announced on Roberto Clemente Day, Griffin Conine is among Major League Baseball's 30 nominees for the 2025 edition of the award that bears Clemente's name. The Hall of Fame outfielder was revered for his humanitarian work, so the Roberto Clemente Award goes 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."

Conine started his age-27 season with a promising 20-game stretch during which he slashed .281/.352/.438 with great defense in the corner outfield spots. But he has been sidelined for nearly five months since dislocating his left shoulder and undergoing surgery. He's expected to complete a rehab assignment this week and rejoin the Fish in the midst of their final road trip of 2025.

Even more so than the typical Clemente Award nominee, Conine's nomination is all about his off-the-field impact. Throughout this year, he has focused his efforts on youth development and increasing access to baseball. "When Griffin attends events, he leads with intention, making every child feel seen, valued and inspired," the Marlins say.

Conine worked with the Marlins Foundation to help launch the 2025 season with the Marlins Tee Ball Initiative’s Opening Day at Miami Beach, where he joined young athletes on the field, led drills and offered encouragement.

The Marlins hosted the Beep Ball Classic at loanDepot park, an adaptive baseball experience for blind and visually impaired young adults. Conine played blindfolded to gain firsthand perspective and make a statement about the importance of inclusivity in sports.

Conine also joined Billy’s Summer Reading Challenge at a Miami library, led warmups for a PLAY BALL clinic and visited Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center's Alex’s Place.

 

 

 

 

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Fittingly, Conine has been regularly involved in the "Community Gamechanger" moment during Marlins home games as individuals making their own positive impact in the South Florida community were honored by the Marlins Foundation.

You can vote for Conine here through September 28.