CANADA – For the second time in three years, New Westminster, B.C. native Justin Morneau has been honored with the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame’s annual Tip O’Neill Award.

Morneau, 27, was runner-up to Boston Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia for American League MVP after batting .300 with 23 home runs and 47 doubles and 129 RBIs. The Minnesota Twins first baseman was also a member of the 2008 AL All-Star team at Yankee Stadium where he won the home run derby.

The award is given annually to a Canadian player judged to have excelled in individual achievement and team contribution while adhering to baseball’s highest ideals.

Tags: Canada