YES! YES! YES! Josh Reddick Takes the Gold

Yesterday I stated quite frankly that it would be a travesty if Josh Reddick wasn’t awarded the Gold Glove for RF, and I’m pleased to report that we do not have a travesty on our hands as Reddick defeated Jeff Francoeur and Shin-Soo Choo for the honor.  For the first time since Dwayne Murphy in 1985 an Oakland Athletics outfielder has won the annual honor.

Aug 27, 2012; Cleveland, OH, USA; Oakland Athletics right fielder Josh Reddick (16) makes a diving catch in front of center fielder Coco Crisp (4) in the fourth inning against the Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-US PRESSWIRE

Reddick gained a big reputation throughout the league after displaying an incredible arm from right field, gunning down runners at any base with reckless abandon.  It’s good to see that the league took notice, and Reddick seems to think base runners might be a little more cautious next season.  “I think maybe the third-base coaches and some guys who are going to take second are going to keep this in the back of their mind,” Reddick said. “It’s something that maybe adds more to my game, and hopefully they think twice about taking that extra base now.”

Reddick already knew he was a threat on the field, and it seems he takes a bit of satisfaction in knowing everyone else knows it too.

One of the best qualities Reddick displayed this season can’t be quantified, but his character played a big role in the quality of his defense.  Through the latter portion of the season, Reddick was mired in a deep deep slump, but never did he let his issues at the plate have an effect on his play out in the field.  Even when he was struggling mightily hitting the ball, he was making jaw dropping catches and throws all over right field.

Moving forward Reddick appears to have solidified his place within the organization as a cornerstone piece.  For his flaws, the high strikeout rate, and the problems hitting with runners in scoring position, Reddick brings so much to the table that he needs to be here to stay long term.  While you really never know with Billy Beane, and he could pull off a shocker and move just about anyone at anytime, the likelihood of that person being Josh Reddick has to be very very low.

So while our neighbors in the Bay Area have their own ultimate celebration tomorrow morning, A’s fans can have their own celebration of the accomplishment of Josh Reddick.  Keep that parade in mind though, because more performances like what Reddick gave us in 2012 could lead to one of those celebrations like they’ll have tomorrow.  It’s all uphill from here.