A dynamic leader on the field and a dedicated humanitarian off the field, Francisco Lindor’s impact stretches far beyond the diamond, making a lasting impression in multiple communities.
His consistent philanthropic efforts -- both in his native Puerto Rico and across local communities -- make him a deserving nominee for the 2025 Roberto Clemente Award.
Since his arrival in the Major Leagues, Francisco has made it a personal mission to give back and uplift others. His actions are deeply rooted in the values of empathy, opportunity and education. Whether responding to natural disasters or developing future leaders through education, Francisco leads by example.
A proud alumnus of Montverde Academy in Florida, Francisco has given back generously to his former school, believing that education is the foundation for future success. Since 2020, Francisco has donated more than $1 million to help fund and develop Lindor Hall, a two-story middle school building featuring state-of-the-art science and technology labs. He also established the Francisco Lindor Scholarship Fund to help students attend Montverde Academy who otherwise wouldn’t have the financial means.
On Dec. 19, 2024, Francisco hosted a special PLAY BALL event at Montverde Academy, providing local students with opportunities to play, connect and grow. In addition to ongoing financial support, he has also donated baseball gear and equipment to the school's team over the years, reinforcing his dedication to youth sports and access.
Last Spring Training, Francisco took his mentorship a step further, inviting many of his scholarship recipients to Port St. Lucie, Fla. There, he shared his own journey, discussed the importance of goal setting and gave the students a behind-the-scenes look at the St. Lucie Mets’ facilities, underscoring his belief in dreaming big and staying grounded in values.
Francisco’s deep connection to Puerto Rico continues to guide his charitable efforts. After Hurricane Maria devastated the island in 2017, Lindor returned to his hometown of Caguas, funding the restoration of his former grammar school's sports programs and repairing damaged playing fields. He hosted a clinic for more than 250 children, turning devastation into inspiration.
In 2022, after Hurricane Fiona struck Puerto Rico, Francisco and his wife, Katia, partnered with Team Rubicon, donating $50,000 to support emergency response. Their leadership inspired a matching donation from the Amazin’ Mets Foundation, expanding the reach of their original donation.
Most recently, in December 2023, Francisco and Katia partnered with Players for the Planet and Rescate Playas Borinquen for a beach cleanup at Wilderness Beach, Puerto Rico. More than 100 volunteers joined the effort, collecting debris and planting 200 trees to help protect the environment and preserve coastal biodiversity.
Francisco’s connection to Queens, N.Y., has continued to deepen throughout his career with the New York Mets. In partnership with New Balance, he began a new back-to-school tradition in 2023, personally distributing backpacks and school supplies to middle school students from the Tommie Agee School in East Elmhurst.
In 2024, this initiative expanded to P.S. 054 Hillside School in Richmond Hill where students received a surprise visit and school supplies directly from Francisco. This initiative will continue to expand in Queens in 2025.
In 2024, he launched Smile Tuesdays, a personal and health-centered initiative promoting dental hygiene and self-confidence. Each month, he hosts 12 youth from local organizations at Citi Field. They hear Francisco’s own story about childhood insecurities with his teeth, meet dental professionals and enjoy watching him play, creating a full-circle moment of education, inspiration and joy.
Francisco is a true ambassador of the game and a champion for inclusion. He has participated in the Mets' Spring Training Clinic for Champions with Special Olympics Florida, coaching and encouraging athletes with disabilities. He also hosts the Lindor Clinic for Kids, where youth from local leagues and Boys and Girls Clubs receive direct instruction, mentorship and inspiration from the All-Star himself.
His commitment to inclusion and growing the game continued on June 12, 2024, When Francisco took to Times Square to launch MLB's PLAY BALL Weekend. He pitched to kids from across New York, encouraging baseball participation among underserved communities and embodying the joy and accessibility of the sport.
Francisco's achievements on the field speak for themselves, but his consistent and heartfelt dedication to making a positive impact off the field defines him as a true role model. His passion for education, dedication to youth and underserved communities and environmental advocacy, and his enduring love for Puerto Rico all make him the embodiment of the values the Roberto Clemente Award represents.
Francisco Lindor is a leader, a mentor and a changemaker whose legacy is being built on hope, opportunity and compassion.