Major League Baseball announced Thursday that New York Yankees first baseman Jason Giambi and Cincinnati Reds outfielder Ken Griffey Jr. have captured the inaugural Comeback Player of the Year Award. Giambi, who received just over 100,000 votes, easily won the award in the American League after he re-established himself as one of the game's preeminent players. Giambi struggled through much of 2004 as he battled a benign tumor and an intestinal parasite, but rebounded with a solid 2005. The 34-year-old Giambi batted .271 with 32 homers and 87 RBI in 139 regular- season games. Giambi led the American League with 108 walks and also had an AL-best .440 on-base percentage. Giambi helped lead New York to its eighth straight AL East Division title as the Yankees are currently taking on the LA Angels of Anaheim in the ALDS. Griffey, who received 101,264 total votes, reverted back to his stellar play that earned him 10 straight All-Star appearances in the 1990's. The 35-year- old had his season cut short due to various injuries, including knee and hamstring problems, but still averaged .301 with 35 homers and 95 RBI. His 35 homers were the most he has hit in a season since the 2000 campaign when he belted 40. Griffey, a 12-time All-Star also has 536 career homers, which ties him for seventh place on the all-time list with Mickey Mantle. This award will presented annually to the player in each league who re-emerged on the field during a given season.