Pence a fitting winner of Heart and Hustle Award

PHILADELPHIA -- Right fielder Hunter Pence won an award that sounded as if it were named for him.

Pence was named Tuesday as the Giants' recipient of the Heart and Hustle Award, given annually to honor players who demonstrate passion for the game and best embody baseball's values, spirit and tradition. The Heart and Hustle Award is also the only award in Major League Baseball that is voted on by former players.

Toward the end of the season, fans, baseball alumni and active players will vote to select the final winner from among the 30 team winners.

Pence said he draws inspiration and motivation from multiple sources.

"We're competing to win for each other," Pence said, adding that his constant effort is "for my teammates. And beyond my teammates, it's for the people who put the work in behind the scenes" such as strength coaches and athletic trainers.

As Pence has mentioned on many occasions, he thrives on the competition.

"That's why I love the game," he said.