Newcomers Highlight MLB Sliver Slugger Award Winners

New York, NY (AHN) – Major League Baseball appears in good hands as a new crop of talent highlights the Silver Slugger Awards.

The Silver Slugger Awards goes to the best offensive performers at their positions, voted on by managers and coaches.

Eight first time winners took home the hardware.

Third basemen Ryan Zimmerman of the Washington Nationals and Tampa Bay’s Evan Longoria were honored.

Torii Hunter, 35, won his first Silver Slugger award. He also won his ninth straight AL Gold Glove earlier this week.

Derek Jeter represents American League shortstops. Joe Mauer batted .365 with 28 homers and 96 RBI. He’s in.

Ichiro Suzuki batted .352 as Mariners outfielder. Second baseman Aaron Hill and DH Adam Lind were awarded for Toronto. The Blue Jays join the Yankees and Dodgers with two winners.

Jason Bay rounds out the American League list.

The National League had five repeat performers: first baseman Albert Pujols, shortstop Hanley Ramirez, catcher Brian McCann, outfielder Ryan Braun and pitcher Carlos Zambrano.

Outfielders Andre Ethier and Matt Kemp represent the Dodgers and Chase Utley is safe at second base representing the Phillies.