"It seems like every game, KK does something special in the field that impacts the game," Rays Manager Kevin Cash said. "He has so much natural talent, but it’s the hard work he puts in daily that makes him great. We’ve been fortunate to get to watch him every day for several years now, but we don’t take his defense for granted."

It's the third time Kiermaier has won the award. He won in both 2015 and 2016, taking home the Platinum Glove award for the former.

"This one means a lot to me," the center fielder said after the announcement was made. "After not being able to even be a nominee the last two years, it really ate at me because I because I always say I want to put these discussions to sleep on who the best defensive center fielder is in baseball."

Kiermaier beat out Boston's Jackie Bradley Jr. and Los Angeles' Mike Trout, who were also finalists, for the award.