Andrew McCutchen gets heartwarming gift from a boy he visited in the hospital
You might remember the time this season when Andrew McCutchen gave his batting gloves to a couple young Pittsburgh Pirates fans who were cheering him on in the center field seats. McCutchen’s genuine act of kindness brought a huge smile to the kids’ faces and gave them an awesome story to tell.
Well, this time it was McCutchen that was on the receiving end of a heartwarming gift. And this one might bring tears to your eyes.
McCutchen shared a letter on Facebook on Tuesday that he received from Matt Groeber, a boy he visited in at the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh earlier this year. Along with the note was a signed home run ball from Groeber’s triumphant return to the baseball field after recovering from a brain abscess.
Matt – thank you for the HR ball… and the autograph! More importantly, I’m so glad you’re doing better and healing….
Posted by Andrew Mccutchen on Monday, November 2, 2015
The letter reads:
Dear Andrew McCutchen,
This summer I suffered a brain abscess and spent most of my time in Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. During my stay I was lucky enough to meet you when you visited to do art with the kids. Every night I looked forward to watching the Pirates and was thrilled to know you were coming to visit. Baseball is my favorite sport and I was not sure if I would ever be able to play again. Your visit helped inspire me to get better.
I am [feeling] better now and playing baseball again. This past weekend I played two games and hit three home runs. I am sending my first home run ball to you as a thank you.
Thank you again for the visit and picture you drew me in the hospital.
Your Friend,
Matt Groeber
Wolfpack
How cool is that?
Given how much work McCutchen does in the community and how he touches the people he meets, it should come as no surprise that he was awarded the Roberto Clemente award last week for being the MLB player who “best exemplifies the game of baseball, sportsmanship, community involvement and the individual’s contribution to his team.”
That trophy will sure look sweet right next to the autographed ball he received from his buddy Matt.
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Israel Fehr is a writer for Big League Stew on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at [email protected] or follow him on Twitter. Follow @israelfehr
