Andres Gimenez, Steven Kwan Among MLB Leaders In This Defensive Stat, Guardians News

Two Cleveland Guardians lead the American League in defensive runs saved.

Tommy Wild | Sep 16, 2023

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Cleveland Guardians

The Cleveland Guardians have taken many steps back on offense compared to where this team stood at the end of 2022. This regression has forced the front office to search for more offensive help and still many questions heading into the offseason.

One part of their play that has remained strong despite their poor offense is their defense. This Gold Glove-caliber play has come from two specific players.

Anders Gimenez

Andres Gimenez is a shortstop by trade who shifted over to second base with the team opting to play Amed Rosario at short. We can go on all day long about how Gimenez probably should've been playing on the left side of the infield all along, but we can't deny how good he's been at second base too.

That strong defense is still on display in 2023. Gimenez currently leads the American League with 19 defensive runs saves and is third in MLB trailing Fernando Tatis Jr. (26 DRS) and Ke-Bryan Hayes (26 DRS).

Gimenez won his first Gold Glove last season and it looks like he's on his way to another one in 2023.

Steven Kwan

Another first-time Gold Glove winner in 2022 was Steven Kwan and he did that in rookie season. Kwan has made a name for himself for being an ultra-disciplined hitter but his defense is another part of his game making him a dynamic player.

Kwan has 17 DRS this season which is second in the AL only trailing his teammate. This is also good enough for sixth in MLB.

This is great for a left fielder but it does make you wonder whether his defensive ability combined with his offensive consistency would be better served in center field.

Published Sep 16, 2023

TOMMY WILD