Trout, Stanton headline Hank Aaron award nominees
Offensive production was at the center of the 2017 MLB season where more home runs were hit than ever before. The Hank Aaron Awards, given out during the World Series, are aimed at rewarding the best in both leagues in that department, though it goes beyond long balls.
An annual tradition since 1999, retired Boston Red Sox designated hitter David Ortiz and Chicago Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant took home the accolades a season ago.
This could mark the first time a duo actually repeats as co-winners. Mike Trout and Giancarlo Stanton won their league's respective awards in 2014. There will be some stiff company however, especially in the form of slugging rookie Aaron Judge and Joey "the most patient man in baseball" Votto also in the running.
American League
| TEAM | PLAYER | POSITION |
|---|---|---|
| Orioles | Jonathan Schoop | 2B |
| Red Sox | Mookie Betts | RF |
| White Sox | Jose Abreu | 1B |
| Indians | Jose Ramirez | 2B/3B |
| Tigers | Nicholas Castellanos | 3B |
| Astros | Jose Altuve | 2B |
| Royals | Eric Hosmer | 1B |
| Angels | Mike Trout | CF |
| Twins | Brian Dozier | 2B |
| Yankees | Aaron Judge | RF |
| Athletics | Khris Davis | LF |
| Mariners | Nelson Cruz | DH |
| Rays | Logan Morrison | 1B |
| Rangers | Elvis Andrus | SS |
| Blue Jays | Josh Donaldson | 3B |
Fans also have a say in the proceedings, and can vote through the team sites at MLB.com.
National League
| TEAM | PLAYER | POSITION |
|---|---|---|
| D-Backs | Paul Goldschmidt | 1B |
| Braves | Freddie Freeman | 1B |
| Cubs | Anthony Rizzo | 1B |
| Reds | Joey Votto | 1B |
| Rockies | Charlie Blackmon | CF |
| Dodgers | Cody Bellinger | 1B |
| Marlins | Giancarlo Stanton | RF |
| Brewers | Travis Shaw | 3B |
| Mets | Michael Conforto | OF |
| Phillies | Odubel Herrera | CF |
| Pirates | Andrew McCutchen | CF |
| Padres | Jose Pirela | LF |
| Giants | Buster Posey | C |
| Cardinals | Tommy Pham | LF |
| Nationals | Ryan Zimmerman | 1B |
The award bears Aaron's name for being one of the most iconic hitters of his, or any, generation. Over 23 seasons, he notched 3,771 hits, 755 home runs, and never struck out 100 times in a single season.