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Edward Florentino (Photo by Joe Robbins/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Most freshly-signed prospects spend years grinding in the minors before they get even a glimpse of a major league ballpark—let alone one with actual fans in the seats. But for Edward Florentino, that moment came much sooner than expected.
In September 2024, the 18-year-old wasn’t at the ballpark to play, but to be recognized. Standing on the field at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, Florentino accepted the Pirates Community Commitment Award as the Dominican Summer League honoree—a rare spotlight for someone so early in their journey. The moment was even more special considering it took place on MLB’s annual Roberto Clemente Day, which honors the Puerto Rican trailblazer by recognizing players involved in community work.
Florentino, who’s since become a Top 100 Prospect and a rising figure in the Pirates’ system, was admittedly stunned when he found out he’d been selected. Recognition was never the goal. In fact, he didn’t even know the award existed.
He gave back, not because of some award, but because it was what his family had always taught him to do.
“It’s about doing the right thing when no one is looking,” Florentino told Baseball America in Spanish. “If you’re only focused on showing off when people are around, it isn’t a true reflection of who you are. I always strive to make sure that I’m the best version of myself, no matter who is around.”
The Pirates Community Commitment Award is given annually to one player from each level of the organization who exemplifies outstanding community involvement. For players in the DSL, where resources and exposure are more limited, it means more. It signals that a young player not only stands out on the field but is also making a real difference off it—a message that resonates deeply throughout the organization.
From the moment he joined the Pirates, the Dominican outfielder has made a point to stay active in the community by regularly participating in outreach efforts like trash cleanups, youth baseball camps and any initiative where he could lend a hand. Whether it was picking up a rake or sharing a few swings with local kids, Florentino approached every opportunity with humility and enthusiasm. Along the way, he quickly earned the respect of teammates, staff and the community alike.
Florentino credits his parents—especially his mother—for instilling the…