Cashner nominated for Roberto Clemente Award
PHOENIX -- Major League Baseball announced on Monday that Andrew Cashner was named the Padres' 2015 nominee for the prestigious Roberto Clemente Award presented by Chevrolet.
Wednesday marks the 14th annual Roberto Clemente Day, which was established by MLB to honor Clemente's legacy and to officially recognize club nominees of the Roberto Clemente Award.
Cashner is one of the 30 finalists for the annual award, which recognizes a Major League player who best represents the game of baseball through positive contributions on and off the field, including sportsmanship and community involvement.
The Roberto Clemente Award pays tribute to Clemente's achievements and character by recognizing current players who truly understand the value of helping others.
Cashner intimately understands the challenges families face when one member is battling a health condition. Earlier this year, Cashner's mother, Jane, began fighting acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Her diagnosis came shortly after she celebrated the 10-year anniversary of surviving breast cancer.
In the midst of their mother's fight, Cashner and his sister, Aimee Christensen, created the Cashner Family Foundation, with a mission of bringing hope and joy to children battling various medical conditions.
The foundation's mission is to provide funding to hospitals for activities and adventures that will entertain and encourage children in need. It is through this entertainment that Cashner hopes kids will gain the perseverance and hope needed to endure their most difficult times.
"Andrew has always been supportive of the club's community programs, especially when it comes to recognition of our military and first responders," said Padres Executive Chairman Ron Fowler. "This year, it has been especially meaningful to watch him take his own personal experience from a family hardship, and channel it into a program that benefits local kids who are dealing with medical difficulties. We are proud to have him as part of the Padres organization."