Rojas 'perfect' nominee for Clemente Award

An example on the field, and an inspiration off, Marlins shortstop Miguel Rojas has become one of the most beloved sports figures in South Florida.

Rojas had a big day Monday, going 4-for-5 with two doubles and two RBIs in the Marlins' 5-4 win over the Braves in 10 innings. Rojas delivered the go-ahead run-scoring double in extra innings that held up as the difference.

As a Venezuela native, Rojas feels indebted to Clemente for all he did for Latin-born players.

"It's like Jackie Robinson for African American players," Rojas said. "Roberto Clemente, a guy from Puerto Rico, who opened the doors for all the Latin players. An opportunity for us to be part of the big leagues and play MLB baseball.

"For me, it's not just what he did on the field, but off the field. What Roberto Clemente did for Puerto Rico island, it was amazing. For me, as a Venezuelan player, and following [former Marlins infielder] Martin Prado in this organization, I'm happy to represent the Marlins organization, my family, my country and everybody in the big leagues. All 30 teams are represented. I feel an honor to represent the Marlins organization [for] the Roberto Clemente Award."

For his performances on the field and in the community, Rojas is Miami's 2020 nominee for the Roberto Clemente Award, the prestigious honor that annually goes to the MLB player who represents the values of the iconic Hall of Famer.

• 2020 Roberto Clemente Award nominees

“He fits all the criteria as someone who is great for our clubhouse,” Marlins manager Don Mattingly said. “His leadership, he's a guy who produces on the field and he's involved with the community of South Florida. He's the perfect guy to represent our club.”

Whether it's in-season or the offseason, Rojas frequently gives his time to the South Florida community. He has been at the forefront of participating in team-sponsored food distributions, as well as visiting local schools. Rojas has spoken to students about aiming to achieve success.

The Marlins made a commitment to Rojas in September 2019 by signing him to a two-year contract that will keep him under club control through '21. Rojas was the first Miami player to receive a contract extension since the ownership group led by Bruce Sherman and Derek Jeter took over in October 2017.

Recognized as the Marlins’ unofficial captain, Rojas has bought into the organization’s long-term vision. There have been trying times, with the club finishing in last place in both 2018 and '19.

This season, the Marlins are one of MLB's surprise teams, as they are in the thick of the playoff race with a strong foundation of young players.

“Miggy Ro is an awesome teammate, and a very good guy to be up for the Roberto Clemente Award,” said Marlins outfielder Lewis Brinson, Rojas' teammate for the last three years. “That's a huge honor. It's a huge honor to even be nominated for that. Miggy Ro is definitely the example of somebody who should win that award.”

Additionally, Rojas participates in the Miami Marlins Foundation’s Home Plate Meals program.

“Miggy Ro is the example of a great person off the field, a great person on the field,” Brinson said. “He’s one of the best teammates I’ve had. He truly wants everyone around him to get better and be better -- to be better people and to be better teammates.”

Miami acquired Rojas from the Dodgers after the 2014 season. Mattingly, who also managed Rojas in Los Angeles, has seen the shortstop grow from a utility player into a productive everyday performer.

“Again, I've watched this guy grow up and grow into his role,” Mattingly said. “You want a guy like this representing your organization. He’s a great example for our younger guys.”

Roster moves
The Marlins on Monday reinstated right-hander José Ureña from the injured list ahead of his first start of the season against the Braves at Truist Park.

In a corresponding move, infielder Eddy Alvarez was optioned to the club's alternate training site.

Outfielder Harold Ramirez (left hamstring strain) was transferred to the 60-day injured list.