2024 Gold Glove Awards: First-Timers Shine, Breaking Records!

Sunday night saw the announcement of the 2024 Rawlings Gold Glove Awards on ESPN, and first-timers once again stole the show! This year’s talented group of winners featured a record-breaking 14 rookies, tying the 2022 season for the most in a single season. Even more impressive, 2024 marks the fifth straight season with at least 10 first-time recipients, setting a new record for the prestigious award.

Let’s dive into the breakdown of this year’s Gold Glove winners, showcasing the incredible defensive talent across Major League Baseball:

American League Winners

**Catcher: Cal Raleigh, Mariners:** Raleigh’s remarkable defensive prowess behind the plate earned him his first career Gold Glove. He led all AL backstops with 17 Defensive Runs Saved and played a crucial role in Seattle’s pitching staff success.
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**First Base: Carlos Santana, Twins:** Santana, at 38 years and 174 days old, becomes the oldest position player to win his first career Gold Glove Award, according to the Elias Sports Bureau. Santana led all AL first basemen in Outs Above Average, cementing his defensive dominance. More >

**Second Base: Andrés Giménez, Guardians:** Giménez continues to shine, earning his third consecutive Gold Glove Award. His 20 DRS, double that of any other AL second baseman, solidified his status as one of baseball’s best defensive talents. More >

**Shortstop: Bobby Witt Jr., Royals:** Witt Jr.’s offensive firepower isn’t the only thing setting him apart. His stellar defense earned him his first career Gold Glove, showcasing his all-around talent. More >

**Third Base: Alex Bregman, Astros:** Bregman finally adds a Gold Glove to his impressive collection, with a standout defensive season solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s best. More >

**Left Field: Steven Kwan, Guardians:** Kwan joins Kenny Lofton as the only Cleveland outfielders to win three straight Gold Glove Awards, showcasing his consistent excellence in left field. More >

**Center Field: Daulton Varsho, Blue Jays:** Varsho’s 3.1 defensive WAR led all players across all positions this season, showcasing his impact on the defensive side. More >

**Right Field: Wilyer Abreu, Red Sox:** Abreu made history as the first Red Sox rookie to win a Gold Glove Award since Fred Lynn in 1975, proving himself a defensive star. More >

**Pitcher: Seth Lugo, Royals:** Lugo joins Bret Saberhagen as the only Royals pitchers to win a Gold Glove Award, showcasing his exceptional performance on the mound. More >

**Utility: Dylan Moore, Mariners:** Moore continues to be a valuable asset for the Mariners, showcasing his versatility with solid defensive performances across multiple positions. More >

National League Winners

**Catcher: Patrick Bailey, Giants:** Bailey’s impressive defensive stats, including a league-leading 20 DRS, solidified his place as one of the best catchers in the league. More >

**First Base: Christian Walker, D-backs:**

**Second Base: Brice Turang, Brewers:** Turang claimed his first career Gold Glove, leading all second basemen with 22 DRS and setting a new benchmark for defensive excellence. More >

**Shortstop: Ezequiel Tovar, Rockies:** Tovar’s combination of DRS and OAA earned him his first Gold Glove, showcasing his strong defensive contributions. More >

**Third Base: Matt Chapman, Giants:** Chapman adds his second straight Gold Glove, continuing to dominate defensively as one of the league’s top third basemen. More >

**Left Field: Ian Happ, Cubs:** Happ’s consistency earned him his third consecutive Gold Glove, making him the first Cubs outfielder to achieve this feat. More >

**Center Field: Brenton Doyle, Rockies:** Doyle’s outstanding defensive metrics, including eight outfield assists, secured him his second consecutive Gold Glove. More >

**Right Field: Sal Frelick, Brewers:** Frelick’s exceptional defensive performance, leading NL right fielders in DRS, earned him his first career Gold Glove. More >

**Pitcher: Chris Sale, Braves:** Sale’s defensive prowess on the mound earned him a Gold Glove, joining elite company among Braves pitchers. More >

**Utility: Jared Triolo, Pirates:** Triolo showcased his versatility with solid defense across various infield positions, solidifying his valuable role with the Pirates. More >

Who were your favorites? Which defensive plays stuck with you? Share your thoughts below!