BRADENTON, Fla. — Roberto Clemente has a field named in his honor at Pirate City. At the Pirates’ Dominican Republic academy, there’s a plaque describing Clemente’s legacy.
Wednesday afternoon brought a different reason and way — literally — to celebrate the Pirates icon, as the Manatee Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) unanimously proclaimed the Manatee County-owned section of 27th Street East "Roberto Clemente Memorial Way."
Following workouts, there was a ceremony and unveiling held on the front lawn of the Pirates’ spring training home, as the blue-and-white sign bearing a Pirates “P” and the Manatee County local was uncovered.
“It’s a great, great emotional day, especially with it being the 21st of the month,” Roberto Clemente Jr. said. “So many reach out and celebrate the 21st of the month as an act of kindness. We’re celebrating a beautiful day. We’re very honored that they decided to do this.”
The section of 27th Street East that’s now Roberto Clemente Memorial Way extends from SR-64 to 38th Avenue East. There will also be various memorial signage at key locations and intersections along the corridor.
In discussing the tribute to his dad, Roberto Clemente Jr. said Pirate City was always one the iconic outfielder’s favorite places, the start of a new season and later “a safe place” during a different era for baseball players of color.
Roberto Clemente Jr. also attended Manatee Junior College and stayed at Pirate City, adding a personal connection to the facility that opened in 1969.
“We have celebrated a lot of the naming of streets, but nothing this special,” Roberto Jr. said. “To be back here, to be celebrating and honor that in this way, the connections with Bradenton goes deep.”
Roberto Clemente Jr. and his brother, Luis, worked their way around the quad during workouts on Wednesday morning. Bryan Reynolds chatted with Roberto Jr. for a bit. The latter said he looked forward to being around the current team more.
Manager Derek Shelton, president Travis Williams and owner Bob Nutting had a separate conversation with the Clementes. They’ve all advocated to retire Clemente’s No. 21, and Shelton has long embraced the Clemente legacy.
“I think it’s awesome,” Shelton said. “You know what 21 means to me. Being in our fifth year, the initiatives we’ve tried to push within that, just really appreciate the city of Bradenton is highlighting someone who’s really important, not only in Pittsburgh, but everywhere.
“The fact they’re realizing it and the Clemente sons were here today ... any time we can get them around is fun.”
Jason Mackey: jmackey@post-gazette.com and Twitter @JMackeyPG
First Published: February 21, 2024, 7:48 p.m.
