Houston Astros infielder Jeremy Peña was honored as the team’s winner of the Heart and Hustle Award, announced by Major League Baseball on Tuesday. This recognition, voted on by the league’s player alumni, highlights Peña’s passion and perseverance throughout the season. The award selects a recipient from each <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/baseball/mlb/”>MLB team, with an overall league winner to be named at the end of the year.
Peña’s selection came from a pool of Astros players and was decided by a group of former team alumni. This accolade underscores his strong connection to the Astros organization and his respected work ethic among past players.
Overview of Jeremy Peña’s Season and Accomplishments
Peña has been among the Astros’ top performers this season, despite missing time due to a rib injury that landed him on the injured list. After returning earlier this month, he resumed his role as the team’s starting shortstop. In 86 games, Peña has compiled career-best numbers, including a slash line of .324/.380/.495 and an .875 OPS, alongside 11 home runs and 43 RBIs.
This season marked Peña’s first All-Star selection. He originally rose to prominence as a rookie by helping the Astros capture the World Series title, earning MVP honors for both the American League Championship Series and the World Series. Peña also earned an AL Gold Glove award at shortstop for his defensive excellence. He was drafted by Houston in the third round from the University of Maine in 2018.
History of Astros Players Receiving the Heart and Hustle Award
Jeremy Peña has previously been the Astros’ Heart and Hustle Award recipient. Last year, he was honored again but lost the overall league award to Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. In 2023, Astros outfielder Kyle Tucker was the team’s honoree but the league-wide winner was Texas Rangers second baseman Marcus Semien.
Jose Altuve, one of the longest-serving Astros players, won the team award both in 2021 and 2022. The overall winner in 2022 was Paul Goldschmidt, then of the St. Louis Cardinals and currently with the New York Yankees. Astros legend Craig Biggio remains the franchise’s only player to have won the overall Heart and Hustle Award, achieving the honor in consecutive years, 2006 and 2007.
The Significance of the Heart and Hustle Award in MLB
The Heart and Hustle Award has been presented annually by the Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association since 2005. Each MLB team selects one player who
“exemplify a true passion for the game and who best embody the values, spirit, and tradition of the game.”
It stands out as the only award voted on by former players, with the ultimate winner chosen by a combined vote of the team recipients, alumni, and fans.
Peña’s recognition with the Jeremy Peña Heart and Hustle Award highlights his commitment, reflecting the determination and energy valued within the sport. This award often signals players who are respected not only for their statistics but also for their influence, effort, and leadership.
As the MLB season progresses, the overall Heart and Hustle Award winner will be announced, further acknowledging the extraordinary players who balance skill with heartfelt dedication on the field.