1968 #374 Roberto Clemente (All-Star)I wanted to get this post out while the WBC was still being played, specifically when Puerto Rico was playing.
The Clemente's story is well documented. At the time of his untimely death the career .317 hitter had just recorded his 3000th hit. He was a 15 time all-star, who won an MVP award. He spent his entire career as a Pirate and was a member of both the 1960 and 1971 World Series Championship teams.
It was very enjoyable to go to Puerto Rico and see the enthusiasm of the fans firsthand. Roberto Clemente is definitely celebrated as a Baseball Hero in Puerto Rico. His number is retired at Hiram Bithorn Stadium, and there is another stadium in Puerto Rico which bears his name.
Retired Numbers Hiram Bithorn Stadium #30 Orlando Cepeda, #21 Roberto Clemente (click to enlarge)
Carlos Delgado was a member of the Puerto Rico WBC team and asked the Clemente family to allow him to wear Roberto Clemente's #21 during the Classic.
2009 Phungo #21 Carlos Delgado
This the Phungo card for Carlos Delgado. His card number is 21 to match his uniform number which he wears to honor the memory of fellow countryman Roberto Clemente.
Retired Numbers Hiram Bithorn Stadium #30 Orlando Cepeda, #21 Roberto Clemente (click to enlarge)Carlos Delgado was a member of the Puerto Rico WBC team and asked the Clemente family to allow him to wear Roberto Clemente's #21 during the Classic.
2009 Phungo #21 Carlos DelgadoThis the Phungo card for Carlos Delgado. His card number is 21 to match his uniform number which he wears to honor the memory of fellow countryman Roberto Clemente.
A few months back I ran a column on the film "Grand Canyon" and its connection to Roberto Clemente, you can read this entry here.
Phungo Roberto Clemente HoF Index
1959 Topps #478
1967 Topps #242 LL RBI Aaron Clemente Dick Allen (2016 Heritage Preview)
2013 Phungo Retired Number #42-SJP21
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