Royals honor 2012 Minor League Award Winners
The Kansas City Royals this morning at the club's Spring Training complex in Surprise, Ariz., honored six individuals with minor league awards for the 2012 season.
Brett Eibner, recipient of the Frank White Defensive Player of the Year - recognizing the organization's top defensive player. Eibner, 24, was the Royals' second round selection in the 2010 Draft. He played the entire 2012 season with High-A Wilmington, serving as the Blue Rocks' primary centerfielder for the campaign, recording five outfield assists and leading the club's regular outfielders with a .977 fielding percentage.
Alex McClure, recipient of the Mike Sweeney Award - recognizing a player who best represents the organization on and off the field. The 23-year-old McClure split his 2012 season between Wilmington and Double-A Northwest Arkansas. The infielder was a regular at several community visits for both clubs and also was a large part of the Naturals' Faith and Family Day celebration.
Terrence Gore, recipient of the Willie Wilson Award - recognizing the organization's top baserunner. Gore, 21, stole an Appalachian League-leading 36 bases in 38 attempts while playing 2012 with Burlington. The Macon, Ga., resident was the Royals' 20th round selection in the 2011 Draft.
Victor Baez, recipient of the Dick Howser Player Development Person of the Year - recognizing an outstanding member of player development. Baez, the Royals' Dominican Academy Coordinator, is currently in his sixth season with the organization. Baez was instrumental last year in helping the Royals move into a brand-new complex in Mojarra, Guerra, 40 minutes east of Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic.
Kevin Linton, Director of Community Affairs with the Wilmington Blue Rocks, is the recipient of the Matt Minker Award - recognizing an outstanding minor league affiliate employee. Linton is currently in his 12th season with Wilmington and is widely recognized for his community work in the Wilmington area.
Colin Gonzales, recipient of the Art Stewart Award - recognizing an outstanding scout. Gonzales is currently the Royals area scout in Southern California and was unable to attend this morning's ceremony. He will be honored prior to a Royals game at Kauffman Stadium at a to-be-determined date.