Brandon Phillips, the Man Knows How to Use a Glove

Sep 10, 2012; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Reds second baseman Brandon Phillips (4) dives for a ball hit by the Pittsburgh Pirates shortstop Clint Barmes (not pictured) during the second inning at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: Frank Victores-US PRESSWIRE

The Reds second baseman Brandon Phillips wowed fans with his defensive skills all year. Fans saw the bare-handed grabs, the perfect lobs between the legs to get base runners out, and amazing catches to stop opposing teams all season long. Phillips wasn’t just a player; he was craftsman, wielding his artistry before the eyes of millions.

He is, arguably, the best at his position in all of Major League baseball. Phillips’ greatness doesn’t stop on the diamond either. The fielder is quite possibly the most recognized player in baseball for his kindness and generosity to his fans. It is only fitting that the man who “makes it rain” after every base hit, is formally recognized for his outstanding ability in baseball.

Brandon Phillips received the first Wilson Defensive Player of the Year Award for his glove work in the 2012 season. The prize went to the best defensive player on each Major League club. The award is determined by the statistical analysis of MLB Network’s “shredder system” along with input from the Network’s analysts.

The Reds second baseman that had five errors and a .992 fielding percentage in 2012, was passed over for a Golden Glove award this year, after winning the award three other times in his career. Phillips was also the Silver Slugger in 2011. He completed this year with a .281 batting average, 18 home runs, 77 RBIs, and 86 runs in 147 games.

Tis the season for MLB awards, as baseball looks to honor more players next month in the GIBBY Awards that featuring 21 categories. They are scheduled to take place during the Winter Meetings in Nashville, Tennessee on December 4. Though, all of the nominations have not been announced, we do know that Phillips teammate Todd Frazier has been nominated for National League Rookie of the Year.

The Reds had a great year, it is only fitting that their players finally get the recognition that they deserve.