Throughout his 12-year Major League Baseball career, Carlos Rodón has amassed several notable achievements, including three All-Star selections, an American League pennant and MLB’s 307th no-hitter in 2021. While the southpaw pitcher continues to collect accolades on the diamond, his dedication to serving others has become just as defining as his accomplishments on the field. In recognition of those efforts, Carlos and his wife, Ashley, were named recipients of the 2025 Joan Payson/Shannon Forde Community Service Award, an honor bestowed upon members of the baseball community who demonstrate an outstanding commitment to service.
A driving force behind that recognition is the couple’s work through the Carlos Rodón Foundation, which they launched in 2024. The nonprofit provides financial assistance and resources to couples facing infertility and pregnancy complications, with a particular focus on expanding access to In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and other fertility treatments. For Carlos and Ashley, the foundation’s mission is deeply personal.
After experiencing the heartbreak of two miscarriages and the challenges of fertility treatments, the Rodóns were inspired to create the “Willow Grant.” Named in honor of their own miracle -- their daughter, Willow -- the Willow Grant provides essential resources to families navigating the challenges of fertility care, particularly those seeking IVF after pregnancy loss. With the average cost of one IVF cycle in the U.S. amounting to $23,474, the Willow Grant helps ease the significant financial burden many families face by awarding grants ranging from $5,000-$20,000 to eligible couples who have experienced a miscarriage or pregnancy loss and are continuing to pursue their dreams of starting a family. As of September 2026, the Foundation has awarded $715,000 in grants to 60 families across 17 states, with 34 families currently in treatment, 15 babies on the way and four Willow Grant babies born.
To raise further awareness and funds, Carlos and his foundation recently partnered with the New York Yankees for “A Game of Impact” during the July 5 game at Yankee Stadium. Fans could purchase tickets through a special link, with a portion of every ticket sold benefiting the Willow Grant. In addition, Carlos and the foundation presented a $107,500 check to the Columbia University Fertility Center prior to first pitch.
On Aug. 24, the Carlos Rodón Foundation hosted its Third Annual Willow Gala and surpassed its $1 million fundraising target. In only three years, the event has raised more than $1.8 million and has continued to raise awareness and funds to expand its reach. Beyond financial assistance, Carlos and the foundation also provide emotional support and connect families with discounted medications, support services and baby products.
Carlos’ commitment to service extends to the baseball community that helped shape his life. Through the Carlos Rodón Foundation, he supports two travel baseball teams and one travel softball team, helping young athletes access opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach. Carlos and Ashley also donated $250,000 to North Carolina State University, helping fund the Carlos Rodón Pitching Lab, a state-of-the-art facility supporting the future of the baseball program and giving back to the university that played a pivotal role in his development.
Carlos also participates annually in the New York Yankees’ H.O.P.E. (Helping Others Persevere & Excel) Week initiative, which recognizes individuals, families and nonprofits making meaningful contributions to their communities.
Carlos Rodón is committed to making a difference both on and off the field. Through his dedication to service, leadership and philanthropy, he consistently goes above and beyond to positively impact the lives of others. His commitment to helping those in need has earned him recognition as the New York Yankees’ nominee for this year’s prestigious Roberto Clemente Award.
