Tylers Essay

Tyler Clarke

Hispanic Heritage Month

Spanish 604

Introduction

In honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month, I chose to write on one of Puerto-Rico’s favorite son, historical figure and one of baseball’s immortal hall of famer, Roberto Clemente. He represents one of the greatest baseball players that ever lived. I love baseball so it was easy for me to chose Roberto Clemente as someone that I would want to write about not only because of his ancestry but because he is a great human being.

Roberto was born on August 18, 1934 in Carolina, Puerto Rico. He was the youngest of seven children, Growing up Roberto had to work to help his family earn money He had to delivered milk cans to the family‘s neighbors. Roberto Clemente became interested in baseball when he was a child. He often played with his friends and neighbors. Clemente attended Vizcarondo High school. In his freshman year he was recruited by Roberto Marin to play softball for Sello Rojo. He played with the team for two years, he played shortstop.

Roberto began his career by signing a contract with the Brooklyn Dodgers. He was then sent to Montreal to play with the Royals. Clemente had trouble understanding the language. There was only on player that was able to speak his language. In 1954 Clemente was scouted by Clyde Sukeforth. Sukeforth worked with the Pittsburgh Pirates. They where interested in drafting Clemente. Roberto was selected as the Pirates first pick of the 1954 draft. Roberto made twelve all-star appearances, Roberto made his debut on April 17, 1955 against the Brooklyn Dodgers, he was the only player to get a walk off grand slam.

On November 14, 1964, Roberto Clemente married Vera Cristina Zabala, at San Fernando church in Carolina, Puerto Rico. They had three children named: Roberto Jr., Luis Roberto, and Enrique Roberto, Roberto Jr. was born August 17, 1965 each born in Puerto Rico to honor their father's heritage. Each born in Puerto Rico to honor their father's...