Dodgers' Andre Ethier named finalist for Hank Aaron Award

Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Andre Ethier is among the finalists for Major League Baseball's prestigious Hank Aaron Award, according to a league press release. The award recognizes a player from each league as the best all-around offensive performers.

Fans will have the opportunity to vote for one player each from the American and National League Oct. 10 through Oct.16. The winners of the award are determined partly by fan voting and partly by a panel of notable judges, including Tony Gwynn, Paul Molitor, Joe Morgan, Robin Yount and Aaron himself. The results will be announced during the 2012 World Series.

"It is a real privilege to have my name on the award that recognizes the most outstanding offensive performer in each League," Aaron said in the release. "With so many talented players in the game today, I am thankful to have the assistance of my fellow Hall of Famers and the fans to select the winners."

In a frustrating year, Ethier led a Dodgers team that fell just two games short of a playoff berth. The 30-year-old hit .284 with 20 home runs, 89 RBI, and 36 doubles in 149 games for Los Angeles during the regular season.

Jose Bautista of the Toronto Blue Jays and Matt Kemp of the Los Angeles Dodgers won the AL and NL awards in 2011.