Mike Tauchman Recognized For Impact On and Off The Field

Mike Tauchman has emerged as one of Chris Getz's most valuable acquisitions of the offseason, for his work on the field. However, the 34-year-old's influence extends beyond the diamond, as the MLB has recognized him for his significant contributions off the field. 

On Monday, Tauchman was nominated as the White Sox representative for the Roberto Clemente Award. The honor is given annually to a player who best represents the game through outstanding community involvement, philanthropy, and strong character on and off the field. 

Tauchman spearheaded a cause that hit home for his family. His daughter, Remi, was born with a cleft palate, which required her to be hooked up to an NG tube for the first three months of her life. 

At the end of June, Tauchman spearheaded an initiative to assemble care packages in collaboration with his teammates, White Sox staff, and family partners. These packages were designed to support families dealing with hospital stays for cleft and other craniofacial conditions. Each care package included a variety of comforting items, such as stuffed animals, blankets, and a $20 Dunkin' Donuts gift card. Additionally, they contained essential post-surgery items like baby books, lip balm, and wipes, all aimed at providing comfort and assistance during challenging times

Tauchman’s family also launched a fundraising campaign at Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago in July to help bring awareness to National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month. A total of $21,000 was raised through the campaign, surpassing his initial goal of $18,000. The money helped cover transportation and meals for families dealing with extended hospital stays. 

Tauchamn has also proven to be a leader on the field for a young White Sox team, slashing .264/.351/.398 with eight homers and 39 RBIs. He was signed in large part for his plate discipline, and has delivered, posting an 11.2% walk rate which ranks in the MLB’s 80th percentile while also owning a 24.1% chase rate that ranks in the top 26 percent of all MLB hitters. 

He has also led by example with his professionalism and effort throughout the season.  

The Bradley alumni hit a walk-off in extra innings on July 11th to help the White Sox beat the Guardians, then robbed Giancarlo Stanton of a two-run homer on August 31st, which turned out to be a pivot play in the White Sox eventual 3-2 victory. 

On July 11th, the Bradley alumnus delivered a dramatic walk-off hit in extra innings, securing a thrilling 5-4 victory for the White Sox over the Guardians. Later, on August 31st, he made a stunning defensive play by robbing Giancarlo Stanton of a two-run homer, a pivotal moment in the White Sox's eventual 3-2 win.One player for each team is nominated for the Roberto Clemente Award. Fans can vote for Tauchman on MLB.com, with voting ending on September 28th.