Players Trust Names Carlos Rodón Most Valuable Philanthropist for September

Yankees’ pitcher awarded $10,000 grant for the Carlos Rodón Foundation

NEW YORK, September 23 – The Players Trust, the charitable arm of the Major League Baseball Players Association, announced today that New York Yankees starting pitcher Carlos Rodón is the recipient of the final Most Valuable Philanthropist award for the 2026 season. As part of the recognition, The Players Trust will provide a $10,000 grant to the Carlos Rodón Foundation.

“Carlos’ dedication to helping families is deeply inspiring.  By sharing his family’s experience and supporting those navigating infertility and pregnancy loss, he is making a meaningful difference in the lives of countless families,” said Chris Capuano, Chair of the Players Trust Board of Trustees.  “We are proud to recognize Carlos and the Carlos Rodón Foundation as our Most Valuable Philanthropist for September.”

The Carlos Rodón Foundation is a nonprofit dedicated to supporting families facing infertility and pregnancy loss by helping alleviate the financial burden associated with fertility treatment. The foundation was born from the Rodón family's personal heartbreak, and their wish to provide hope for couples who want to start a family.

"After going through our fertility journey and our struggles with having children, Ashley and I decided to start the Carlos Rodón Foundation so we could help couples struggling with the same issues,” said Rodón. “I want to thank the Players Trust for honoring me and my family with this award. The amount you are giving us and the award speaks for itself.”

Rodón broke into the big leagues in 2015 with the White Sox and has since logged time with the Giants and Yankees. The Miami native is a three-time All-Star and threw a no-hitter for Chicago in 2021. His philanthropic efforts have been deeply important to him throughout this career, recently earning recognition from the Yankees with his second consecutive nomination for the prestigious Roberto Clemente Award.

The Players Trust’s Most Valuable Philanthropist award is presented six times during the season to players who demonstrate an altruistic spirit and positive social impact beyond the diamond. Each winner receives a $10,000 grant from the Players Trust to his chosen charity.  

Now in its 30th year, the Players Trust has supported and amplified players’ philanthropic and community engagement efforts by providing resources that extend their reach and impact. Through this work, players have inspired and positively affected countless individuals and communities across the U.S. and around the world.

About the Players Trust

Established in 1996, the Major League Baseball Players Trust is the charitable arm of the Major League Baseball Players Association. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Players Trust is driven by players and inspired by the game. The Trust provides programs and resources that champion their individual and collective passions toward making a positive impact on the world and inspiring others to do the same. Through signature initiatives, strategic partnerships, and direct support, the Players Trust empowers current and former players to give back to the communities they care about most.

Learn more at www.playerstrust.org.