Named after the first winner of the award, Ben McDonald of Arkansas, the trophy rewards the finest pitcher in the DMBL.

This year's award goes to....

Justin Verlander, Hillsborough

Justin Verlander had a dominant year for the Hired Hitmen, leading the league in ERA (2.85), runners per 9 innings (8.4) and tied for first in wins (19) and quality starts (23). Verlander was also 4th in strikeouts (224) and win percentage (.704).

Verlander was first drafted by Hillsborough in the 2006 draft in the 4th round (#45 overall). He debuted in the 2007 season for the Hitmen, posting a 14-10 record with a 5.38 ERA. Verlander was solid for the next four years, with only one losing season (8-9 in 2010). He currently sports a 79-60 career record with a 4.49 ERA and 1058 strikeouts in his six seasons.

Finishing second was Marietta's R.A. Dickey, who posted his second consecutive outstanding season (19-5, 3.38). Hopatcong's Josh Tomlin, who finished third, was an unexpected gem for the Fish. Finishing fourth was Newark's James Shields and coming in fifth was Tim Lincecum, who spent time between Las Vegas and Bridgewater in 2012.

Points are scored as follows: 10 points for a first place vote, 7 for second, 5 for third, 3 for fourth, 2 for fifth and 1 for sixth.

The all-time winners of the McDonald Award: