The Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association (MLBPAA) made the announcement on Tuesday that the Rays' outfielder was this year's selection for the award that goes to the player who demonstrates a passion for the game of baseball and best embodies the values, spirit and tradition of the game.
The Heart and Hustle Award is the only award in MLB that is voted on by former players.
"[Kevin] plays with energy every game, never taking a pitch off," said Tom Foley, Rays bench coach. "[He] runs hard, plays hard and loves and respects the game."
The MLBPAA formed 30 committees, comprised of alumni players with established relationships to each team.