Rizzo, Konerko Named Team Nominees For Roberto Clemente Award

(CBS) Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo and White Sox first baseman/designated hitter Paul Konerko have been named their teams' nominee for the Roberto Clemente Award, it was announced Tuesday.

The award recognizes a Major League Baseball player who best represents the game of baseball through positive contributions on and off the field, including sportsmanship and community involvement.

Rizzo is active in his Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation, which raises money for cancer research provides support to children battling disease and their families. The foundation has raised more than $500,000 since 2012. Rizzo also makes monthly visits to Lurie Children's Hospital.

Rizzo's also had a breakout season on the field, batting .280 with 31 homers and 72 RBIs despite missing almost three weeks recently with a back injury.

Konerko founded the Bring Me Home Campaign with his wife, Jennifer, and former teammate Jim Thome and his wife, Andrea, in 2007. The organization helps raise awareness and generate support for for foster children and their families. Since its creation, the Bring Me Home Campaign has raised nearly $450,000.

"There is no recognition more distinguished and honorable in baseball than the Roberto Clemente Award," said Konerko, who will retire at season's end.  "To be acknowledged as the White Sox nominee for the award is humbling, and it further emphasizes the importance of the role that we as players must serve in our communities. In this my final season, this is a touching and much appreciated tribute."