Kershaw wins 2013 Branch Rickey Award

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Denver • Los Angeles Dodgers left-hander Clayton Kershaw is being recognized for his work off the field. He's the winner of the 2013 Branch Rickey Award in recognition of his community work.

Created by the Rotary Club of Denver in 1991, the Branch Rickey Award honors individuals in baseball who contribute to their communities and are strong role models for young people.

At 25, Kershaw is the youngest person to receive the award.

Each year, major league teams nominate a player, coach or executive, either active or retired, for the award. The award is named in honor of the late baseball executive known for creating the framework for the modern minor league farm system and for breaking baseball's color barrier by signing Jackie Robinson, the first black player in the major leagues.

"Branch Rickey is a pretty influential person, especially to this franchise. So it has a little bit special meaning to me," Kershaw said.

A three-time All-Star and Cy Young Award winner, Kershaw also was honored with the 2012 Roberto Clemente Award for his sportsmanship and off-field endeavors.