TORONTO — Blue Jays designated hitter George Springer was named the team's player of the year by the Toronto chapter of the Baseball Writers' Association of America on Wednesday.

Springer, who hit .309 this past season with 32 homers and 84 RBIs, picked up 19 of 20 first-place votes. First baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. had the other first-place vote.

Springer (eight first-place votes) also edged infielder Ernie Clement (seven first-place votes) for the most improved player nod. Outfielders Addison Barger and Nathan Lukes were also considered.

Kevin Gausman was the near-unanimous pick for pitcher of the year, taking 19 of 20 first-place votes after posting a 10-11 record with a 3.59 earned-run average and 189 strikeouts.

Chris Bassitt was second in the voting while Eric Lauer, who had t

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