Connor Martin of AAA Etobicoke Titans Mosquito wins A.J. Burnett award

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The captain of the AAA Etobicoke Titans Mosquito team won the A.J. Burnett player of the month award last month.

Connor Martin, a left-handed outfielder/pitcher on the team of 10- and 11-year-olds, got the award at the Rogers Centre before the Blue Jays game against the Seattle Mariners. He was escorted out of the visitor's dugout onto the field and presented the award by A.J. Burnett himself.

The award is given monthly to players based on their community involvement, academic performance, personal accomplishments and sportsmanship.

Martin graduated from Briarcrest elementary school with honours and received the school's athlete of the year award.

As a member of the Mosquito team, he batted .362 with 15 RBI's.

"He made numerous outstanding catches including a diving catch in centrefield and others in foul territory down the first-base line," said Dylan Lauzon, coach of the team.

In six games, he earned a record of 2-0 and allowed only six runs.

"His awareness and understanding of the game is unmatched at his age," Lauzon said. "As a leader, he is mature well beyond his age. Not only is his work ethic unquestionable, but he strives for his teammates to get more involved and interested in the game of baseball, making sure everyone enjoys it as much as he does. He is a player every coach wishes they had on their team."

Getting the award was a thrill for Martin, Lauzon said, adding Burnett spoke with Martin and signed some balls.

"It was a well-earned award for Connor and maybe the next time he steps on the field of the Roger's Centre, it won't be to receive an award."