Bryce Harper Named National League Rookie of the Year

Washington Nationals outfielder Bryce Harper has been named MLB's National League Rookie of the Year for 2012.

The Nationals reported Harper's accomplishment via Twitter.

"

#Nationals OF Bryce Harper has been named the 2012 National League Rookie of the Year by the Baseball Writers' Association of America.

— Nationals PR (@NationalsPR) November 12, 2012"

The 20-year-old batted .270 in 139 games this season with 22 home runs, 59 runs batted in and 98 runs scored. Harper also boasted an on-base percentage of .340 and a slugging percentage of .477. His impressive statistics allowed him to beat out Cincinnati Reds third baseman Todd Frazier and Arizona Diamondbacks starting pitcher Wade Miley.

Harper, touted as one of the greatest prospects of his generation, was called up to the Nationals in late April this year after being selected as the top overall pick in the 2010 MLB draft. 

Though he had an up-and-down rookie season, Harper was good enough to be selected to the NL All-Star team as an injury replacement to Giancarlo Stanton of the Miami Marlins. 

Harper has also proved to be a valuable contributor defensively and on the basepaths. He had 18 stolen bases this year and finished with a fielding percentage of .979 playing primarily in center field. 

Throughout the season, his attitude was characterized by gritty determination and relentless hustle. His production and commitment was a big part of the Nationals’ success this season.