A handful of Diamondbacks had some hardware to collect before taking the field for Opening Day Friday afternoon against the San Francisco Giants at Chase Field.
Manager Kirk Gibson received his 2011 National League Manager of the Year, outfielder Gerardo Parra won his first Rawlings Gold Glove, while fellow outfielder Justin Upton and starting pitcher Daniel Hudson each collected Silver Slugger Awards.
Gibson, in his first full year at the helm after taking over for A.J. Hinch in mid-season 2010, guided the Dbacks to a 94-68 record and National West title. He is credited with changing the culture inside the clubhouse and creating competition in the line-up which brings out the best in his players.
Parra, who will see time at all three outfield position spots this season, had a .933 fielding percentage last year committing only two errors in 281 chances. He ranked first in assists and fourth in fielding percentage among National League left fielders.
For 2011 National League All-Star Upton, it was the type of well-rounded offense year the franchise envisioned. He hit .289 with 31 homers and 88 runs batted in. He set career highs in runs, hits (171), doubles (39), home runs, and extra base hits (75). He also stole 21 bases.
The righty Hudson hit .288 with 14 runs batted in, three doubles, and a homer in 65 plate appearances. He ranked first in first in average, hits, and total bases (24).
The quartet was honored with an on-the-field presentation before the 49,130 in attendance.
A Valley native, Eric has had a passion for the Arizona sports scene since an early age. He has covered some of the biggest events including Super Bowls, national championships and the NBA and MLB playoffs in his near 20 years in local media.
