Yadier Molina has done extensive work trying to rebuild his native Puerto Rico following the devastation of Hurricane Maria.
For that, the St. Louis Cardinals catcher has been nominated as a finalist for the Muhammad Ali Sports Humanitarian of the Year Award, joining tennis player Sloane Stephens, recently retired NFL player Chris Long, and the NBA’s Reggie Bullock as a finalist for the Muhammad Ali Sports Humanitarian of the Year Award.
Molina, Long, and Stephens would be the first winners from their respective sports. Past winners include Kevin Durant, Mark Giordano, Chris Paul, and Tamika Catchings.
Molina worked extensively both on the ground in Puerto Rico and in fundraising following the 2017 Hurricane. His efforts earned him the prestigious Roberto Clemente Award in 2018.
The winner will be announced on July 9, the eve of the ESPYs.