Chicago Cubs Celebrate MLB-High 3 Gold Gloves Amid Breakout Seasons

UPDATE: The Chicago Cubs have made headlines by earning a Major League Baseball-high three Gold Glove awards this year, confirming their dominance in defensive prowess. Pete Crow-Armstrong, Ian Happ, and Nico Hoerner are the standout players recognized for their exceptional fielding skills, marking a significant achievement for the team.

Each player’s victory carries its own story. Crow-Armstrong, in particular, has enjoyed a breakout season as an All-Star center fielder, receiving his first Gold Glove after a thrilling year. Meanwhile, Happ has now claimed his fourth consecutive Gold Glove in left field, highlighting his consistent excellence. Reflecting on the achievement, Happ stated,

“Four straight’s pretty special. We had an unbelievable defensive team this year. Just all around, I think we built off each other and kind of fed off each other and the energy, and it was a real source of pride among the group.”

Hoerner, who faced challenges at the start of the season due to right flexor tendon surgery on October 11, 2024, celebrated his second Gold Glove at second base. He expressed pride in overcoming adversity to earn this accolade, stating,

“To have an injury that directly impacts your defense and still win this award, yeah, it feels really good.”

The Cubs were not the only team to shine in this year’s awards. The Kansas City Royals, Boston Red Sox, and San Francisco Giants each had two Gold Glove winners, showcasing the competitive spirit across the league. Notably, Bobby Witt Jr. and Maikel Garcia of the Royals made history as the first shortstop-third baseman teammates to win Gold Gloves in the same season since 2013.

Adding to the excitement, the Giants’ battery of Patrick Bailey and Logan Webb became the first from the same team to achieve this honor together since the Cardinals’ legendary duo in 2013. Bailey’s win marks his second consecutive Gold Glove at catcher.

The Red Sox celebrated victories with right-fielder Wilyer Abreu, a previous winner, and Ceddanne Rafaela, who earned the award for the first time. In total, eight players received Gold Glove awards for the first time this year, a testament to the evolving talent across Major League Baseball.

Among four-time winners, Max Fried of the New York Yankees and Steven Kwan of the Cleveland Guardians joined Happ in this exclusive club. Atlanta’s first baseman Matt Olson also received his third Gold Glove, underscoring his defensive reliability.

This year’s voting process involved managers and up to six coaches from each team, ensuring a fair assessment as they could not select their own players. The results were further enhanced by the Society for American Baseball Research’s defensive index, making it a highly respected award.

As teams and players celebrate their accomplishments, fans are left eager to see how these defensive stars will perform in the upcoming season. The Cubs’ trio of Gold Glove winners not only highlights their current success but also sets a strong foundation for future seasons.

Stay tuned for more updates on player performances and team strategies as the offseason progresses!