AL Rookie of the Year: 5 Reasons Why Eric Hosmer Should Have Won the Award

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Earlier today, the the much anticipated winner of the AL Rookie of the Year award was announced.

Tampa Bay Ray's pitcher Jeremy Hellickson took the prize after going 13-10 with a 2.95 ERA last season.

Royals' first baseman Eric Hosmer came in third in the voting, behind Hellickson and Trumbo, much to the surprise of many, including myself.

Here are five reasons why Hosmer should have won the award instead.

He Had the Most Efficient Season Among AL Rookie Hitters

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Efficiency is something that should be taken very seriously when considering different candidates for an award like this one.

You will not find many hitters that will have a more efficient rookie season than Hosmer did in 2010.

In just 128 games, he had 49 extra base-hits while hitting nearly .300 and scoring 66 runs for the year.

He also managed to drive in 78 runs, steal 11 bases and have an OPS of just under .800.

He Was the Most Complete Player Among AL Rookies

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How many five-tool rookies were there in the AL this past season?

That's right, KC's Eric Hosmer was the only one.

The former first round pick showed off his power, by hitting 19 homers and driving in 78 runs, and speed, by swiping 11 bases for the year.

He's also an elite defensive first baseman, as you should read the next slide for more on that.

He Is a Gold-Glove Caliber First Baseman

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There is a reason that the Royals have seen Hosmer as their long-term solution at first base for quite some time.

When they selected him with their first overall pick in 2008, he was known to possess Gold Glove caliber defense at his position.

After watching him last season, it's easy to see why.

Hosmer made just eight errors in 127 games at first base, while compiling a .993 fielding percentage and turning in many web gems along the way.

He's Mature Beyond His Years

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Eric Hosmer is almost like a man among boys at times.

Even though is just 21, he acts as if he is a 10-year veteran in the majors with how he conducts himself on a daily basis.

I realize that your maturity level doesn't always win you postseason awards, but in my mind, it should factor into it.

He's Eric Hosmer!

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As a baseball fan, how can you not love this guy?

He's a 21-year-old phenom at first base and will only get better with time.

He is also a very respectful and humble guy who knows his limits on and off the field.

Even though he didn't win the AL Rookie of the Year award, you can bet that there will be many other awards that he will rack up throughout his big league career.