Zack Cozart Draws Inspiration From Tennesse State Trooper

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The Reds' shortstop Zack Cozart was chosen as the Reds' nomination for the Major League Baseball Players Aumni Association's Heart and Hustle Award.

Each team choses one nomination for the award which will chose an winner to be announced on November 2016.

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“Honestly, what I thought about first when I heard about was Pete Rose – Charlie Hustle. I remember I had a buddy who won the Charlie Hustle Award at a tournament when we were nine years old," Cozart said. "I found out this morning. I was pleasantly surprised.”

His friend Andy Simunuc won the award when he and Cozart competed at a tournament in Charles City, Iowa. Sumunuc is now a Tennessee State Police Officer.

“I tell him, ‘Dude, you need to text me every day when you’re done,’ with all the stuff going on out there. It’s crazy," Cozart said.

The award draws extra meanint for Cozart because it is former players that will choose the winner.

"When you’re recognized by people who’ve been out there and understand the daily grind, that makes it special. I’m honored to be a part of it,” Cozart said.