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Padres reliever Tim Hill is the team's nominee for the Roberto Clemente Award, the most prestigious honor given to Major Leaguers for their off-the-field contributions.
"It means a lot, just as far as the importance of giving back to the community," Hill told reporters. "I feel like they've given us a good platform to do so, and we need to take advantage of that."
The award recognizes the player who best represents baseball through extraordinary character, community involvement, philanthropy and positive contributions. All 30 clubs nominate one player to be considered. The league-wide award winner will be honored at the 2023 World Series.
In 2015, Hill was diagnosed with colon cancer and underwent months of chemotherapy. In the time since then, Hill said he's made it a point to give back as much as possible.
He's been active with Rady Children's Hospital and hosted a group of teens battling cancer during Spring Training.
"Having gone through it myself and seeing them going through the same thing, it's heartbreaking," Hill said. "I think it's important for people to be aware and helpful in those kinds of situations."
Hill's season officially came to an end on Wednesday when he underwent surgery to address the sprained left ring finger that had landed him on the IL earlier this month. The Padres expect Hill, who owns a 4.18 ERA across four seasons in San Diego, to be ready for the start of Spring Training.
In the meantime, Hill's philanthropic efforts continue. The 33-year-old, born in nearby Mission Hills, spent a year at Palomar College, and he has been active in the community since his return to San Diego. He's attended other Rady activities, including the hospital's Celebration of Life event. He donated blood at the team's annual blood drive and always interacted with Make-A-Wish kids during their visits to the ballpark.
"It fills you with joy," said Hill. "You see these kids are in tougher situations than a lot of other people, and yet they've maintained positivity. They keep it moving. It's impressive."