Durham, N.C. – Sioux City Explorers OF Matty Johnson was named the American Association’s Defensive Player of the Year on Sunday, as voted upon by league managers and media members.
In his first season with the Explorers, Johnson has appeared in all 98 of the Explorers’ games through Saturday, and has not committed an error in 230 chances, to go along with 6 outfield assists.
The Chicago native is a member of a powerful Sioux City squad that has set the league record with 75 victories. In addition to his superb outfield play, Johnson leads the league with 78 runs scored and is fourth in the league with 40 stolen bases to go along with a .263 average and 37 RBI.
Johnson is the second Explorer to win the award since it was introduced in 2011, with SS Leugim Barroso tabbed in 2013.
It was the second award in two days for a member of the Explorers; on Saturday, RHP Patrick Johnson was named the league’s Pitcher of the Year.
American Association Defensive Players of the Year
2015: OF Matty Johnson, Sioux City
2014: SS Ryan Khoury, Wichita
2013: SS Leugim Barroso, Sioux City
2012: SS Ryan Khoury, Wichita
2011: OF Jonathan Van Every, St. Paul
