New York, NY

Atlanta Braves closer Craig Kimbrel and Tampa Bay Rays starter Jeremy Hellickson were named baseball's rookies of the year.

Kimbrel won the National League award easily after one of the most dominant relief seasons in recent history.

Kimbrel posted a rookie-record 46 saves with a 2.10 ERA and 127 strikeouts in 77 innings. Kimbrel earned all 32 first-place votes to easily beat out teammate Freddie Freeman.

"It definitely did surprise me, with the unanimous decision," Kimbrel said. "For my teammate Freddie, I expected it to be close. I definitely am surprised by that.

Hellickson won the American League award after going 13-10 with a 2.95 ERA and 117 strikeouts in 189 innings.

"I guess I was a little surprised," Hellickson said. "There was a handful of guys I think all had the same amount of chance to win. I felt like I had a good chance, but once I finally did hear my name, I was really happy."

The 24-year-old righthander picked up 17 first-place votes to beat out Los Angeles Angels first baseman Mark Trumbo.

Kimbrel is the first pitcher to win the NL award since Dontrelle Willis of the Marlins in 2003.

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