Every September 15, Pittsburgh pauses to honor Roberto Clemente, a baseball legend whose impact went far beyond the diamond. This year, the Pirates are taking the celebration a step further with their first-ever live Spanish-language broadcast of a game, ensuring that Clemente’s story continues to reach fans not only in the Steel City, but across Latin America and around the world.
Before the Bucs take the field against the Cubs at PNC Park, the organization will once again take part in a Day of Service, with players, coaches, and staff giving back to the community in Clemente’s honor. But the highlight of the evening will be “El Día de Roberto Clemente: Los Piratas en Español,” airing on SportsNet Pittsburgh’s SNP+ and SNP360 app, and streamed worldwide on MLB.com.
Roberto Clemente Jr. will handle the play-by-play alongside three-time All-Star and fellow Puerto Rican Carlos Baerga, bringing the action to Spanish-speaking fans for the very first time. The broadcast will also feature appearances from several past Clemente Award winners; Sammy Sosa, Carlos Delgado, Carlos Beltrán, Edgar Martinez, and Albert Pujols, who will share their reflections on receiving the award that bears Clemente’s name.
“This one is going to be very special,” Clemente Jr. told MLB.com. “Fans are in for a treat, because we’re celebrating Clemente Day in a big way.”
For Clemente Jr., the broadcast is more than just commentary. It’s the fulfillment of a dream he’s been pushing for over six years. Having once served as the Spanish voice of the Yankees and ESPN, calling a Pirates game, especially on his father’s day, is deeply personal. He noted how important it is for Latino players to hear and be heard in their own language, adding that the broadcast will give Spanish-speaking fans and athletes alike a morale boost.
“This is just the start,” he said. “I’m looking forward to building on this for next year and beyond. We’re going to make it count.”
Pirates chairman Bob Nutting echoed the sentiment, saying, “It is very fitting that, as we honor The Great One’s legacy, his son will be calling the action in their native language. This is a special moment for the organization, the Clemente family, and baseball fans around the world.”
Roberto Clemente’s legacy remains timeless. Though his life was cut short in 1972, his humanitarian spirit, pride in his heritage, and greatness on the field continue to inspire new generations. A Spanish-language broadcast not only honors his story but ensures that his impact resonates even more deeply with fans from Puerto Rico to Pittsburgh, from Latin America to every corner of the globe.
As Clemente Jr. put it best: “My father’s story isn’t just about baseball It’s about humanity. And that will never get old.”