The Chicago Cubs have been recognized for their outstanding defensive capabilities by winning the National League team Gold Glove Award. This accolade reflects the collective defensive excellence displayed by the team throughout the Major League Baseball (MLB) season. The award was announced in October 2023, marking the second time the Cubs have received this honor since its inception in 2020.
Key players contributing to this achievement include center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong, second baseman Nico Hoerner, and left fielder Ian Happ, all of whom received individual Gold Glove Awards. Additionally, left-handed pitcher Matthew Boyd, catcher Carson Kelly, and third baseman Matt Shaw were named finalists for their defensive performance, further highlighting the team’s depth in skill.
The Gold Glove Award for team defense is determined using the SABR Defensive Index (SDI), a sabermetric model developed by the Society of American Baseball Research. This model combines advanced statistics from various sources, including MLBAM’s Statcast and Sports Information Solutions, to evaluate defensive performance based on batted ball location and play-by-play data.
The Cubs excelled in defensive statistics, leading MLB with 37 Outs Above Average (OAA) and finishing second in Fielding Run Value with a total of 41, just behind the Toronto Blue Jays. These metrics underscore the team’s ability to prevent runs and secure victories through effective defense.
In reflecting on the season, Hoerner noted the significance of teamwork in their defensive success. “That Padres (wild-card) series was really the best example of that, just the ability to win close games and steal runs,” Hoerner stated. He emphasized that while only three players won individual awards, it was a collective effort that defined their defensive identity.
Happ, who secured his fourth consecutive Gold Glove Award, echoed this sentiment. “All across the field, we were pretty exceptional,” he remarked. He highlighted how the team’s defensive prowess instilled confidence in their pitchers, enabling them to perform at their best.
This recognition reaffirms the Cubs’ commitment to excellence on the field and their capability to compete at the highest level. With a strong foundation of defensive talent, the team aims to build on this success as they move forward in upcoming seasons.
