Dustin Pedroia Named 2013 Winner of MLBPAA’s Heart & Hustle Award

Dustin Pedroia earned some more hardware Tuesday.

Pedroia, whose season included a World Series title, a Gold Glove and an All-Star selection, was named the 2013 recipient of the Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association’s Heart & Hustle Award.

The Heart & Hustle Award, created by the MLBPAA in 2005, is presented annually to an active player who demonstrates a passion for the game of baseball and best embodies the values, spirit and traditions of the game. It’s voted on by alumni and active major league players, according to the MLBPAA website.

One player is chosen from each major league team each year “based on the passion, desire, and work ethic demonstrated both on and off the field.” A final winner is then chosen from the 30 representatives, and Pedroia got the nod this time around. Pedroia, who played through a thumb injury in 2013, has been chosen as the Red Sox’ representative for the award four years in a row.

Mike Trout won the Heart & Hustle Award in 2012. Craig Biggio (2006 and 2007) is the only two-time winner.

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