Former Thresher Tabbed For Prestigious Award

CLEARWATER, Fla. - Former Thresher Troy Hanzawa was named as the 2011 Bill Giles Award winner for his outstanding efforts during spring training this year. Hanzawa was the everyday shortstop for the Threshers in 2010 and played in one game for the Philadelphia Phillies in spring training this year.

Hanzawa becomes the ninth former Thresher to win the award as Jason Donald was the last to do so in 2008. The honor is named after Bill Giles who is currently the chairman of the Phillies, and it was established in 1999. It was meant to award minor leaguers who share a love and respect for the game, have outstanding work ethic, and have pride in being a part of the Phillies organization.

Playing 122 games with the Threshers in 2010, the Hawaii native anchored the defense with a .960 fielding percentage and is a career .260 hitter. Hanzawa played a large role in 2009 for the Lakewood BlueClaws on their way to a South Atlantic League championship.