Pillar named Wilson's top defensive CF

BOCA RATON, Fla. -- A day after Kevin Pillar missed out on a Gold Glove Award, he received the Wilson Defensive Player of the Year Award for best center fielder in the Major Leagues.

"He's a highlight reel," Blue Jays interim general manager Tony LaCava said of Pillar.

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In the American League Gold Glove competition, Pillar lost out to a division rival in Rays defensive specialist Kevin Kiermaier.

"They're both great defenders," said LaCava. "We get to see Kevin every day so we know how great he is. In the future, I'm sure they'll both battle for it every year."

In his first full season in the Majors, Pillar emerged as an elite defender for Toronto to earn a spot in its powerful lineup. His spectacular diving grabs became routine.

Video: Must C Catch: Pillar's climbing catch robs home run

Since 2012, Wilson has recognized the top defenders at every position.

These awards recognize the best defensive player at each position regardless of league, best defensive team and best overall defensive player. Winners since 2012 are determined using a formula that combines traditional defensive stats with advanced metrics, as well as the data logged by baseball experts working for the scouting service Inside Edge.