In the realm of defensive prowess in Major League Baseball, the 2023 Platinum Glove Awards have found their home with San Diego Padres right fielder Fernando Tatís Jr. and Cleveland Guardians infielder Andrés Giménez. This prestigious accolade acknowledges their exceptional fielding contributions, marking them as the defensive standouts in their respective leagues.
Tatís Jr., showcasing versatility by spending a considerable portion of his time in the outfield, tallied a career-high 283 putouts during the season. This stellar performance not only secured him his inaugural Gold Glove but also propelled him into contention for the coveted Platinum Glove.
Certified Platinum 👏
Fernando @tatis_jr is the first Padre and the first outfielder in the National League to win a Platinum Glove! pic.twitter.com/P9YrGITgVc
— San Diego Padres (@Padres) November 11, 2023
On the other side of the diamond, Giménez, stationed in the infield, exhibited defensive excellence by turning an impressive 87 double plays across 150 games. His remarkable skills earned him his second consecutive Gold Glove, setting the stage for his recognition with the Platinum Glove.
Our beautiful, wonderful second baseman has been recognized as the best fielder in the American League.
Congrats to the AL Platinum Glove winner, Andrés Giménez.#ForTheLand pic.twitter.com/BI3nIvUgVW
— Cleveland Guardians (@CleGuardians) November 11, 2023
The defensive proficiency displayed by Tatís Jr. and Giménez extends beyond individual honors, as both players secured remarkable rankings in defensive runs saved. Tatís Jr. notched 27, while Giménez closely followed with 23, solidifying their impact as defensive linchpins.
In Padres history, Tatís Jr. etches his name in the annals as the first player to claim the Platinum Glove since its inception in 2011. This achievement breaks the impressive six-year streak held by eight-time All-Star Nolan Arenado, who had previously dominated the National League’s defensive landscape.
For Giménez, his Platinum Glove victory adds another accolade to Cleveland’s defensive legacy, with Francisco Lindor having previously earned the honor in 2016. Together, Tatís Jr. and Giménez stand as beacons of defensive excellence, their skills recognized and celebrated on the grand stage of the Platinum Glove Awards.