Orioles’ Cowser finishes a close 2nd to Yankees’ Gil for AL Rookie of the Year

In a close vote, Orioles outfielder Colton Cowser finished second to New York Yankees right-handed starter Luis Gil for American League Rookie of the Year.

Cowser, who led all American League rookies with 24 home runs, drove in 69 runs and hit .242 with a .768 OPS, had 13 first-place votes to Gil’s 15.

Gil, who was named on 26 of the 30 ballots, had 106 points while Cowser had 101. Cowser, who had 11 second-place votes and three third-place votes, was named on 27 of the 30 ballots.

New York Yankees catcher Austin Wells finished third but did not receive any first-place votes.

Two impressive relievers — Oakland’s Mason Miller and Cleveland’s Cade Smith — finished fourth and fifth. Each received one first-place vote.

Cowser, who was a Gold Glove finalist in left field, was seeking to follow Gunnar Henderson, who was the unanimous Rookie of the Year last season.

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