Beltran helps open Puerto Rico goodwill tour

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — New Astros outfielder Carlos Beltran stood on the stage in front of a packed ballroom in one of the nicest hotels on the island, pointed at Indians shortstop Francisco Lindor and smiled.

“Everyone give a hand to Lindor for the great job he did in the World Series and for representing all of us in Puerto Rico,” Beltran said. “Clap for Sandy Alomar Jr., too. He’s a coach for the Indians. We call him the baseball thief because he’s always watching for the other team’s signs. He’s meant so much to Puerto Rico. All of you have.”

Beltran’s words in the private reception marked the official start of the Puerto Rico goodwill tour “Peloteros por Puerto Rico.” The event, spearheaded by the Major League Baseball Players Association in conjunction with Major League Baseball, is designed to spotlight Hall of Famer Roberto Clemente and his humanitarian efforts while celebrating baseball legends and promoting the development of baseball in Puerto Rico.

“This is important because we are honoring our hero Roberto Clemente, the kind of humanitarian he was on and off the field,” Beltran said. “The Players Association has done a great job. They wanted to …

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