Canadian Scott Richmond was recognized for his strong April by being named American League rookie of the month yesterday.
The Toronto Blue Jays right-hander went 3-0 with a 2.70 earned-run average in four starts, bringing a much-needed measure of stability behind ace Roy Halladay in the starting rotation. In 23 1/3 innings, the North Vancouver, B.C., native allowed 20 hits and 10 walks with 20 strikeouts.
"It's nice and it's surprising," said Richmond.
"I'm honoured and it just makes me want to work harder and do better."
Other rookies receiving votes were his Blue Jays teammate Ricky Romero (2-0, 1.71 ERA, 21 innings, 13 strikeouts) and Oakland reliever Andrew Bailey (2-0, 1.15 ERA, 15 2/3 innings, 18 strikeouts).
St. Louis Cardinals infielder Brian Barden claimed top rookie honours in the NL.
Tampa Bay Rays third baseman Evan Longoria was named AL player of the month while St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Albert Pujols bagged the NL prize.
Pitchers of the month were Kansas City Royals right-hander Zack Greinke in the AL and New York Mets left-hander Johan Santana in the NL.
