How to Pronounce Roberto Clemente

Meaning and Context

Roberto Clemente, born in Carolina, Puerto Rico, in 1934, was a transcendent Puerto Rican outfielder whose legendary career with the Pittsburgh Pirates from 1955 to 1972 redefined excellence in Major League Baseball (MLB). A 15-time All-Star and 12-time Gold Glove Award winner, Clemente was celebrated for his powerful and precise throwing arm, exceptional batting average—securing the National League batting title in 1961, 1964, 1965, and 1967—and his clutch performance in the 1971 World Series where he was named MVP. Beyond his statistical achievements, Clemente's profound humanitarian legacy was tragically cemented when he died in a plane crash on December 31, 1972, while en route to deliver aid to earthquake victims in Nicaragua. His posthumous induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1973, via a special election that waived the customary waiting period, made him the first Latin American player to receive the honor, solidifying his status as a cultural icon and a symbol of pride for Puerto Rican baseball history and the broader Latino community in sports.

Common Mistakes and Alternative Spellings

The name "Roberto Clemente" is most commonly and correctly spelled as such, with the first name ending in "o" and the surname beginning with "C." However, frequent misspellings arise from phonetic errors or typographical slips. Common variants include "Robert Clemente" (anglicizing the first name), "Roberto Clementi" (substituting an "i" for the final "e"), and "Roberto Clemmente" (adding an extra "m"). Another occasional error is "Clemente Roberto," reversing the order of his names. When searching for information, it is also useful to include his full name, Roberto Clemente Walker, incorporating his maternal surname as is customary in Spanish naming conventions. Ensuring correct spelling is crucial for accurate research into his baseball statistics, humanitarian work, and enduring legacy.

Example Sentences

Every young outfielder in Puerto Rico dreams of emulating the graceful defensive prowess of Roberto Clemente, whose cannon-like arm from right field is the stuff of baseball legend.

The Roberto Clemente Award, presented annually to the MLB player who best exemplifies sportsmanship and community involvement, ensures his humanitarian spirit continues to inspire new generations.

Historians often note that Clemente's 3,000th career hit, achieved in his final regular-season at-bat in 1972, was a poignant milestone for a player whose life was cut short just months later.

Visiting the Great Hall in Cooperstown, one is immediately struck by the plaque honoring Clemente as the first Latin American Hall of Famer.

His legacy extends far beyond the diamond, as evidenced by the numerous schools, parks, and community centers across the United States and Puerto Rico that bear his name.

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