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Giving back to LA schools ‘the right thing to do’ for Roberto Clemente Award nominee Smith

This story was excerpted from Sonja Chen’s Dodgers Beat newsletter. To read the full newsletter, click here. And subscribe to get it regularly in your inbox.

Published: Thursday, 24 September 2026 at 5:45 PM
Giving back to LA schools ‘the right thing to do’ for Roberto Clemente Award nominee Smith
Key Things to Know
  • Will Smith is the Los Angeles Dodgers' nominee for the 2026 Roberto Clemente Award.
  • Smith and his wife Cara founded the Catching Hope Foundation in 2021 to assist underprivileged students.
  • The award winner will be determined by a panel and fan vote, then honored during the World Series.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Will Smith was selected as the team's nominee for the 2026 Roberto Clemente Award. Smith and his wife, Cara, established the Catching Hope Foundation in 2021 to support underprivileged children with essential resources and skills across the Los Angeles community. The annual league-wide award recognizes players who demonstrate extraordinary character, philanthropy, and community involvement.

Voting for the award remains open through Sunday, with the overall winner scheduled to be honored during the 2026 World Series. Smith could join previous Dodgers recipients Mookie Betts, Justin Turner, Clayton Kershaw, and Steve Garvey. The Catching Hope Foundation has expanded its outreach by partnering with local schools, including creating an outdoor literacy space at Clifford Elementary School.

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