Jones named finalist for Hank Aaron Award

NEW YORK - Seventeen All-Stars from the 2012 season, including Orioles center fielder Adam Jones, have been named finalists for the Hank Aaron Award. Beginning today and continuing through Oct. 16, fans will have the opportunity to select one American League and one National League winner. The winners of the 2012 Hank Aaron Award will be announced during the World Series. "Named in honor of one of the greatest hitters and competitors of all-time, the Hank Aaron Award recognizes each League's best all-around offensive performer," said commissioner Bud Selig in a statement released by Major League Baseball. "Hank's career will forever remain a model of excellence and consistency, and I am glad that the 30 club nominees are following the example of a pillar of our game." A special panel of Hall of Fame players also will cast votes, including Aaron, Tony Gwynn, Paul Molitor, Joe Morgan and Robin Yount. Adam LaRoche was chosen as the Nationals' representative for the award. American League Baltimore Orioles: Adam Jones Boston Red Sox: Dustin Pedroia Chicago White Sox: Alex Rios Cleveland Indians: Shin-Soo Choo Detroit Tigers: Miguel Cabrera Kansas City Royals: Billy Butler LA Angels of Anaheim: Mike Trout Minnesota Twins: Joe Mauer New York Yankees: Derek Jeter Oakland Athletics: Josh Reddick Seattle Mariners: Kyle Seager Tampa Bay Rays: B.J. Upton Texas Rangers: Josh Hamilton Toronto Blue Jays: Edwin Encarnacion National League Arizona Diamondbacks: Aaron Hill Atlanta Braves: Jason Heyward Chicago Cubs: Alfonso Soriano Cincinnati Reds: Jay Bruce Colorado Rockies: Carlos Gonzalez Houston Astros: Jose Altuve Los Angeles Dodgers: Andre Ethier Miami Marlins: Giancarlo Stanton Milwaukee Brewers: Ryan Braun New York Mets: David Wright Philadelphia Phillies: Carlos Ruiz Pittsburgh Pirates: Andrew McCutchen St. Louis Cardinals: Matt Holliday San Diego Padres: Chase Headley San Francisco Giants: Buster Posey Washington Nationals: Adam LaRoche