While the southpaw pitcher continues to compile accolades on the diamond, Carlos Rodón’s contributions outside of baseball certainly leave a profound impact on the lives of others.
In 2024, Carlos, along with his wife, Ashley, founded the Carlos Rodón Foundation dedicated to aiding couples facing difficulties relating to infertility and pregnancy complications by providing financial assistance and resources for in vitro fertilization and an array of fertility assistance treatments. Carlos and Ashley’s commitment to this cause is deeply personal and ongoing.
After experiencing the heartbreak of pregnancy loss and the challenges of fertility treatments, the Rodóns were inspired to create the “Willow Grant”, named in honor of their daughter, Willow, to support other families navigating similar journeys. The “Willow Grant” annually offers $10,000 to $20,000 to 25 eligible couples who have experienced miscarriages or pregnancy loss and are continuing to pursue their dreams of starting a family. Couples and families throughout the New York metro area, North Carolina, South Carolina and beyond have benefited from the foundation’s efforts.
In addition to providing financial resources for those struggling to afford treatments and healthcare costs related to family planning, the foundation continually raises awareness around the realities of facing pregnancy loss and complications through its social platforms. As a result of his dedication, Carlos has demonstrated compassion, leadership and a drive to make a lasting difference in the lives of others -- values that reflect the very spirit of the Roberto Clemente Award.
On Sept. 8, the Carlos Rodón Foundation hosted its Second Annual Willow Gala in Greenwich, Conn. In only two years, the event has raised more than $710,000, bringing in $150,000 in 2024 and more than $560,000 in 2025. The Willow Gala has allowed the foundation the ability to expand its reach and partner with clinics and nonprofits to provide essential resources for hopeful families.
This past June, Carlos and his Yankees teammates participated in the New York Yankees’ annual HOPE (Helping Others Persevere & Excel) Week initiative, where the Club highlights individuals, families and organizations worthy of recognition and support.
During this year’s HOPE Week celebration, Carlos volunteered at Bottomless Closet, a New York City-based organization dedicated to providing women of limited means and challenging circumstances with a blueprint for entering the workforce. Rodón played a role in assisting the organization’s clients in their preparation for job interviews and helping to outfit them with professional clothing.
Carlos Rodón is committed to giving his best on and off the field in a manner that leaves a meaningful difference in the lives of others, making him this year’s New York Yankees nominee for the prestigious Roberto Clemente Award.