The Northwoods League announced two Mankato MoonDogs as winners of the Rawlings Silver Glove Award. Jay Nessler and Mike Dudley each won the award presented annually to the Northwoods League’s "finest in the field.”

Nessler, who is a hometown hero playing baseball at MSU-Mankato, was an anchor at 3rd base for the MoonDogs. He appeared in 62 games, starting everyone at 3rd base and providing rock solid defense all summer. "We knew Jay would be a good hitter, but his defense was outstanding. He is very deserving of this award,” stated MoonDogs head coach Brad Rupert from his office in Redding, California.

Dudley, who has enrolled at the University of Kansas, was the everyday first baseman for the MoonDogs. He committed only 3 errors in the 61 games he appeared in. Dudley 6’5” frame allowed him to get to ball many other first baseman could not reach.

"This is a very prestigious award and both players should be extremely proud of this achievement,” said General Manager Kyle Mrozek when asked about the Silver Glove awards. "Only 9 players earn this award of the 300 to play in the Northwoods League. It really is something special to have two MoonDogs, especially a local Mankato player, receive this honor.”

The Northwoods League announced the Silver Glove Awards on the back of this week’s Baseball America. The back cover features all nine Silver Glove recipients, and the publication can be purchased at sports stores throughout the area.