KANSAS CITY, MO (November 20, 2008) – Mike Aviles was named today as the top shortstop on the Topps Company's 50th annual Major League Rookie all-star team.  The Royals rookie was joined on this elite list by Cubs catcher Geovany Soto, Reds first baseman Joey Votto, White Sox second baseman Alexei Ramirez, Rays third baseman Evan Longoria, Reds outfielder Jay Bruce, Twins outfielder Denard Span, Rangers outfielder David Murphy, Athletics pitcher Brad Ziegler and Nationals pitcher John Lannan.
The 27-year old Aviles, who was recently named the 2008 Royals Player of the Year, finished tied for fourth in the A.L. Rookie of the Year voting.  He hit .325, best among MLB rookies, with 27 doubles, four triples, 10 home runs, 51 RBI and 68 runs scored in 102 games for Kansas City after being purchased from Omaha on May 29.  Aviles is the Royals 14th player to be named to the Topps' All-Rookie team.  
The Topps' Major League Rookie All-Star team was initiated in 1959.  The Rookie All-Stars will each have a trophy on their 2009 trading card in Topps Baseball.
Royals Topps Rookie All-Stars:
1969 – Lou Piniella (OF), Billy Butler (RHP)
1976 – Tom Poquette (OF)
1978 – Rich Gale (RHP)
1987 – Kevin Seitzer (3B)
1989 – Tom Gordon (RHP)

1990 – Kevin Appier (RHP)
1994 – Bob Hamelin (1B)
1996 – Joe Randa (3B)
1999 – Carlos Beltran (OF)
2000 – Mark Quinn (OF)
2003 – Angel Berroa (SS)
2007 – Brian Bannister (RHP)
2008 – Mike Aviles (SS)
For more information, please contact Royals Media Relations at 816-921-8000.

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