By Matthew Shinkle, Sports Talk Philly Staff 
In his third season with the Philadelphia Phillies, 32-year-old Andres Blanco was nominated earlier today for his first Heart and Hustle Award, given each year to an active player "who demonstrates a passion for the game of baseball and best embodies the values, spirit and traditions of the game."
In 69 games this season, Blanco is batting .261 with with three home runs and eight RBI's. Serving more of a utility and veteran leadership role on this otherwise young Phillies team, he has spent time at six different positions this season. Mostly playing in the infield, Blanco has played more than 10 games at first, second, and third base.
To see other team's winners, click here.
Extra: Also nominated for their current team was former Phillie Chase Utley, currently with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Utley was beloved during his tenure in Philadelphia for his relentlessness in all facets of the game – whether it be running out a ground ball or playing premiere defense at second base.
This is Utley's seventh time winning the award for his current team, although he has never named the league's winner. In Philadelphia, Utley won the award six times – from 2007-2009 and from 2013-2015.
