Lopez's community work earns Clemente nod

SAN FRANCISCO -- Left-hander Javier Lopez, who leads the Giants in appearances, also has kept busy with humanitarian efforts. So it was fitting that Lopez, 38, was named the Giants' nominee Monday for the prestigious Roberto Clemente Award.

Lopez is one of 30 club finalists for the annual award, which recognizes a Major Leaguer who best perpetuates the altruistic spirit of the legendary Clemente by representing baseball through positive contributions on and off the field.

Lopez has supported numerous charities since joining the Giants in 2010. The list includes Juma Ventures, which provides jobs at AT&T Park for low-income high school students; St. Anthony's Foundation; GLIDE Memorial Church; Make-A-Wish; and various programs to help the homeless. Lopez also assists the Giants Community Fund by participating in Education Day, the Guardsmen Sports Auction and the Chevron Giants/49ers Celebrity Shootout.

A ceremony recognizing Lopez will be held before Saturday's Giants-D-backs game.