Eduardo Escobar named D-backs’ 2019 Heart and Hustle Award winner

Arizona Diamondbacks third baseman Eduardo Escobar was named the team’s 2019 Heart and Hustle Award winner, the Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association (MLBPAA) announced Tuesday.

The award is given to active players who “demonstrate a passion for the game of baseball and best embody the values, spirit and traditions of the game,” according to the press release.

“Day after day, he shows his passion and respect for the game, his team and teammates,” D-backs coach Luis Urueta said. “He is a leader on and off the field.”

The award is the only one in Major League Baseball that is voted on by former players.

Comprised of alumni players with significant ties with each team, the MLBPAA formed 30 committees that select one player from each ballclub “based on their passion, desire and work ethic demonstrated both on and off the field.”

Escobar will be recognized for his accomplishment at an upcoming home game.

Fans and active players will join all alumni in the voting of the final winner toward the end of the season.

This year’s Heart and Hustle Award is the 15th edition since its inception in 2005 and will name its winner at the 20th Annual Legends for Youth Dinner in New York City on Nov. 7.

Previous winners include Hall of Famer Craig Biggio (2006-07), the late and future Hall of Famer Roy Halladay (2010), and Mike Trout (2012), to name a few.

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