Durham Bulls take big haul of post-season awards

DURHAM BULLS NEWS RELEASE - The International League announced Tuesday its postseason All-Star Team and Award Winners as selected by the circuit's managers, coaches, media, and club representatives. Durham slugger Dan Johnson has been named the IL's Most Valuable Player on the strength of his League-leading 30 home runs and 95 RBI.

Johnson is the fourth Durham Bull since the club joined the League in 1998 to be named Most Valuable Player, following Steve Cox (1999), Toby Hall (2001), and Kevin Witt (2006).

Heralded pitching prospect Jeremy Hellickson, also of Durham, has been named the IL's Most Valuable Pitcher. Hellickson's 2.45 ERA leads the circuit. Hellickson is the first ever member of the Durham Bulls to be named IL Most Valuable Pitcher.

Manager of the Year is Charlie Montoyo of Durham. Montoyo's Bulls have the League's best record (84-52) and have already clinched their fourth straight IL South Division championship. He is now the first skipper since Durham joined the International League in 1998 to receive Manager of the Year honors.

Durham is the first franchise to win at least three of the League's four Special Awards since Norfolk swept the honors in 1995.

Also, Durham's Elliot Johnson has been selected as the International League's top utility player for 2010. The 26-year-old Johnson was primarily a shortstop this season, but he has also seen significant time at second base and in the outfield for the Bulls. His .314 average is 4th in the IL, while he is also 5th in the League with 30 stolen bases.