TORONTO — Toronto Blue Jays right-hander Alek Manoah received the sportsmanship award for defensive teammate Alejandro Kirk after the Mexican receiver came under fire online for his weight.
Manoah received approximately $73,000 (CA$100,000) as part of the award and immediately donated it to KidSport, a Canadian non-profit organization that gives children the opportunity to participate in organized sports.
Earlier this month, Manoah was upset when Montreal radio host Matthew Ross tweeted that Kirk “puts the sport to shame” because of his weight and figure. Kirk, selected to his first All-Star Game this season, is 5’7″ tall and weighs 265 pounds, according to his MLB.com biography.
Ross responded to video of Kirk scoring the first goal in the Sept. 13 game against Tampa Bay. Toronto won 7-2 and shared the doubleheader with the Rays.
Manoah, who has thrown at Kirk in all but one of his starting games this season, fired back at Ross and asked him to “let go of the keyboard.”
“Come on tell this 8 year old who is 10 pounds heavier than he should be to give up,” he posted. For KIRK, to inspire these kids to keep fighting for their dreams and striving for greatness.”
Ross later deleted his post and closed his account before publicly apologizing for his comment.
To recognize Manoah’s actions, Dove Men+Care announced that it would partner to honor sportsmanship in athletes and named Manoah as its first recipient.
At a Monday press conference, Dove Men+Care praised Manoah for “conveying a positive image” and demonstrating “remarkable sportsmanship on the world stage.” The company announced that Manoah intended to donate the prize to KidSport.
Manoah made his debut last season and is 15-7 with the Blue Jays, who are leading the race for the first AL wild card. His 2.31 ERA ranks fourth among the majors. Manoah’s salary is $706,200 this season.
In his third year in the majors, Kirk is hitting .293 with 14 home runs and 62 RBIs in 132 games.
Manoah and Kirk were named to the All-Star Game for the first time this season.
“Internet fanatic. Web ninja. Social media trailblazer. Devoted thinker. Friend of animals everywhere.”