Twins announce 2024 Harmon Killebrew Award winners
MINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL, MN – The Minnesota Twins today announced the 2024 Harmon Killebrew Award winners for outstanding minor league community service. Following the National Baseball Hall of Famer's death in 2011, the Twins have annually recognized a player from each of the organization's full-season affiliates for their service within the respective affiliate's community; players are nominated by their respective general managers. A plaque is awarded, in addition to an on-field presentation during spring training. This year's quartet of first-time winners were all recognized for their positivity and willingness to offer their time in myriad ways whenever asked.
Catcher Chris Williams has been named the winner of the award representing Triple-A St. Paul. The 27-year-old set the tone for the club on and off the field, impacting the greater St. Paul community in the process. During the organization-wide Minnesota Twins Week of Service in June, Chris took part in the Saints' recess takeover at Crossroads Montessori School, encouraging inclusive play while showcasing the life skills to be learned from it. He also participated in the Saints' Reading Tree program, joining author Nancy Carlson in presenting "Sometimes You Barf" to kids and their families prior to a game, and was a celebrity co-host with the Children's Minnesota Star Studio during a hospital visit with patients and families battling pediatric cancer. Williams has hit .213 (56-for-263) with 15 doubles, 14 home runs, 36 RBI, 45 walks, 44 runs scored and a .762 OPS in 83 games for St. Paul this season.
Infielder Jake Rucker has been named the winner of the award representing Double-A Wichita. Rucker was highlighted by the Wind Surge for his understanding of the big picture of baseball – that something as small as a smile, a photograph, the toss of a baseball or an autograph – can mean a lot to fans of all ages. He was gracious with his time and quick to volunteer or activate in the community whenever the opportunity arose. Rucker, 25, has hit .261 (122-for-468) with 23 doubles, one triple, nine home runs, 68 RBI, 35 walks, 55 runs scored and a .693 OPS in 121 games for Wichita this season.
Right-handed pitcher John Klein has been named the winner of the award representing High-A Cedar Rapids. Kernels staff recognized the positive impact the 22-year-old made in the Cedar Rapids community during the season, with his generosity of time and kindness of spirit, as well as his positive attitude towards all team initiatives. Klein went 8-3 with a 4.57 ERA (100.1 IP, 51 ER), 38 walks, 90 strikeouts and a 1.40 WHIP in 22 games (20 starts) for the Kernels this season.
Outfielder Maddux Houghton has been named the winner of the award representing Low-A Fort Myers. In his second season in Fort Myers, Houghton continued to make a positive impact on the fans and the local community, enthusiastically participating in every available volunteer opportunity while conducting himself with professionalism and positivity. The 25-year-old hit .254 (65-for-256) with 12 doubles, two triples, four home runs, 35 RBI, 29 walks, 50 runs scored and a .709 OPS in 84 games for the Mighty Mussels this season.