Big news for Chicago Cubs fans—three Cubs have just snagged Gold Gloves for their defense in the 2023 season. Pete Crow-Armstrong, Ian Happ, and Nico Hoerner all earned the honor, and honestly, it says a lot about where the Cubs are headed as a team.
It’s not every day you see this kind of recognition for defense. The Cubs have clearly made it a priority, and it’s starting to pay off.
Pete Crow-Armstrong: A Rising Star in Center Field
Pete Crow-Armstrong, the Cubs’ young center fielder, made a huge impact in his first full season. He covers so much ground out there, and his quick reflexes and strong arm turn tough plays into routine ones.
He just picked up his first Gold Glove—well deserved, honestly.
Key Defensive Stats
Check out Crow-Armstrong’s defensive numbers:
- Defensive Runs Saved (DRS): 15
- Ultimate Zone Rating (UZR): 12.5
- Outs Above Average (OAA): 10
Those stats really jump off the page. He just makes things happen out there, and you can see why he’s getting this kind of recognition.
Ian Happ: Consistency in Left Field
Ian Happ’s been the definition of steady in left field. He’s got a reliable glove, a strong arm, and he just doesn’t make many mistakes.
With his second Gold Glove in a row, Happ’s really made himself one of the top defensive outfielders around.
Defensive Highlights
Happ’s numbers tell the story:
- DRS: 10
- UZR: 8.3
- OAA: 7
He’s always there to prevent extra bases and make the smart play. The Cubs’ outfield wouldn’t be the same without him.
Nico Hoerner: Excellence at Second Base
Nico Hoerner’s glove work at second base has been something else. He’s got quick hands, smooth footwork, and covers a ton of ground.
This season, he picked up his first Gold Glove, and it really feels like he’s just getting started.
Impressive Defensive Metrics
Here’s what Hoerner’s stats look like:
- DRS: 13
- UZR: 9.1
- OAA: 8
He’s always turning tough plays into outs. Watching him in the field, you just get the sense he’s a difference-maker.
Impact on the Chicago Cubs
These Gold Gloves mean a lot for the Cubs. It’s not just about individual awards—it shows the team’s focus on defense is paying off.
Building a Defensive Powerhouse
It’s pretty clear the Cubs are building around defense. They’re developing players who can change a game with their glove, and that’s starting to shape the team’s identity.
If you ask me, this could be the start of something big for Chicago.
Looking Ahead
Crow-Armstrong, Happ, and Hoerner are giving the Cubs a defensive backbone to work with. Their Gold Glove wins point to a promising future.
The Cubs keep searching for players who shine in the field. If they’re aiming for championships, a tough defense feels essential, doesn’t it?
Want more details on the Cubs’ Gold Glove winners? You can check out the full article on Bleed Cubbie Blue.
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