The Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame is preparing to award its Tip O’Neill Award for the 2022 season. This award is intended to recognize a Canadian athlete who has distinguished himself as much by his game as by his dedication to his sport. .
James “Tip” O’Neill was the first Canadian to play major league baseball when he played for the St. Louis Browns in 1887. A native of Woodstock, Ontario, O’Neill had established several records that year, including batting for an average of .492. We can rightly say that he was one of the first star players in the Majors.
This year, several players from Quebec are in the running to get their hands on this trophy won in 2021 by Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
Besides Guerrero Jr. who is a native of Montreal, Charles Leblanc, Abraham Toro and Édouard Julien could be rewarded. Julien is currently playing in the Minnesota Twins affiliates and the chances of seeing him eventually break into the big club’s roster are very good.
For his part, Charles Leblanc made headlines several times following his recall by the Miami Marlins, where he became a regular player.
Éric Gagné got his hands on the trophy in 2002 and 2003, while Larry Walker saw his name inscribed on it nine times. The award has been presented since 1984.
Canadians playing for the Toronto Blue Jays are obviously among the finalists. Guerrero Jr., Jordan Romano and Zach Pop all end up among the picks.
Canadian talent is increasingly present in the Majors and the Tip O’Neill prize is likely to be shared among several individuals over the next few years.
Cal Quantrill, brothers Josh and Bo Naylor, all three members of the Cleveland Guardians, as well as Matt Brash (Mariners) and Rowan Wick (Cubs), have all caught the eye in 2022. The former has 15 wins for the surprising Guardians this season and he’s been in the top flight for a few years now.
Of course, the name of Joey Votto (seven times recipient) is there again, as are those of Tyler O’Neill (Cardinals) and Nick Pivetta (Red Sox).
Baseball fans can vote for the candidates of their choice by email ([email protected]) by specifying who their top three choices are. They have until Tuesday, November 22, at 5:00 p.m. to do so.
