Since his arrival in Tampa Bay in 2019, Rays closer Pete Fairbanks has personified class on and off the field. On Monday, he was recognized for his character.
The Rays nominated Fairbanks for the Roberto Clemente award, which is given to players who demonstrate excellence in character, community involvement, philanthropy and more. It is considered the most prestigious individual honor in Major League Baseball.
Other nominees in the American League East include Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Jose Berrios, Baltimore Orioles third baseman Jordan Westburg, Boston Red Sox relief pitcher Liam Hendriks and New York Yankees starting pitcher Carlos Rodon.
“To be honored as this year’s nominee for the Roberto Clemente Award for the Rays, it’s humbling” Fairbanks said. “Just to be recognized for what I think is the natural thing that we’re supposed to do of people in our position and give back to our community.”
For Fairbanks, production on the mound translates to a special purpose beyond baseball.
After losing their daughter, Ellis, to Turner Syndrome in 2024, Fairbanks and his wife, Lydia, founded the Strikeouts for Ellis campaign. For every batter Fairbanks strikes out, they donate $100 to the Turner Syndrome Foundation, a non-profit advocacy agency providing educational resources and support surrounding the genetic disorder.
The Rays Baseball Foundation matches each contribution, and the efforts have raised nearly $60,000 as of August.
Beyond their work in raising money and spreading awareness for Turner Syndrome, the efforts of the Fairbanks family in the community are notable. They spend time with families facing difficult circumstances at the Ronald McDonald House in Saint Petersburg, Fla., and Pete participates in Rays on the Runway, an annual event benefiting the Children’s Dream Fund supporting critically ill children. Additionally, Fairbanks aided in the efforts following Hurricane Helene and Milton in 2024 by distributing food and supplies to affected families in the community.
“Support the causes that are close to our hearts and be recognized for the hard work that my wife and I have done for the causes that we believe in is obviously very humbling and I’m very appreciative for it.”
Fans can vote for the Roberto Clemente Award until the end of the season on Sept. 28.