Cincinnati's Tyler Naquin named National League Player of the Week

Not a bad week for the “Hillbilly”.

On Monday afternoon, Major League Baseball announced their Player of the Week awards, and former Texas A&M star and current Cincinnati Reds outfielder Tyler Naquin took home the National League honor. The New York Yankees’ Luke Voit was the American League recipient.

Naquin slugged his way to the award, posting a .500 average (13-for-26) with four homers, a triple, three doubles and a 1.706 OPS. The Spring, Texas native also drove in five runs in seven games as the Reds posted a 5-2 record.

After being non-tendered by Cleveland this offseason, Naquin landed with the Indians’ in-state rival as a fourth outfielder behind Nick Castellanos, Jesse Winker and Aristides Aquino. Injuries forced Naquin into a more predominant role, appearing in 112 games. On the year, Naquin is hitting .268 with 18 home runs and 66 RBIs in 365 at-bats.

The last week was crucial for the Red Legs. Capitalizing on the San Diego Padres’ recent rough patch, the Reds now find themselves in the National League postseason picture for the first time since April 21. Cincinnati is currently 7.5 games behind Milwaukee in the National League Central but sits 1.0 game ahead of San Diego for the second Wild Card spot in the senior circuit.

During his time in Aggieland, Naquin was a fan favorite, helping guide Texas A&M to the 2011 College World Series. In three seasons (2010-12) for the Aggies, he hit .346 with 13 home runs and 112 RBIs. Known for his cannon of a right arm, Naquin amassed 17 outfield assists, manning right field in a majority of 187 games played.

With Naquin swinging a hot bat, the Aggie will likely continue to play a big role in Cincinnati’s postseason push.