Cesar Hernandez to Receive Phillies 2018 Heart and Hustle Award

By Matt Rappa, Sports Talk Philly editor

Before the Philadelphia Phillies open a six-game homestand Monday evening against RHP Stephen Strasburg and the Washington Nationals, the Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association (MLBPAA) will present second baseman Cesar Hernandez with the Phillies 2018 Heart and Hustle Award.

Created in 2005, the Heart and Hustle Award recognizes active players who demonstrate a passion for the game of baseball and best embody the values, spirit and traditions of the game.

Hernandez becomes the seventh different Phillie to receive the Heart and Hustle Award, joining shortstop Freddy Galvis (2017), utility infielder Andres Blanco (2016), second baseman Chase Utley (2013-15, 2007-09), catcher Carlos Ruiz (2012), RHP Roy Halladay (2010-11) and outfielder Aaron Rowand (2005-06).

Each year, fans, MLB alumni and active players vote to select the final winner from the 30 team award recipients. The late Halladay (2010) is the only Philadelphia Phillies player to garner Heart and Hustle Award top honors. The New York Yankees' Brett Gardner was named the top Heart and Hustle Award recipient in 2017.

The Heart and Hustle Award is the only MLB award where former players can vote.