Oakland Athletics: Appreciating Matt Chapman’s defensive greatness

Matt Chapman has been the best defensive third basemen in the majors since his debut, even if he is still somewhat overshadowed by Nolan Arenado.

When it comes to the best defensive third baseman in the game, there tends to be one name that readily comes to mind. Nolan Arenado has had a lock on the National League Gold Glove at the hot corner, and may well be the best defensive third baseman currently. However, if anyone is to take that title, it may well be Oakland Athletics third baseman Matt Chapman.

Since entering the league in 2017, Chapman has been a force defensively. He has saved 40 runs in that span, a total that already places him sixth amongst active third basemen. While he is 15 runs saved behind Manny Machado for fifth on the list, it is inevitable that Chapman will continue to ascend those ranks.

Since Chapman made his debut on June 15, 2017, only Arenado has been able to approach that level. Considering that the Rockies’ third baseman had saved 45 runs, the most at the hot corner over the past three years, Chapman’s performance is all the more impressive.

Oakland Athletics

There is one metric where Chapman outperforms even the great Arenado. Over the past three seasons, the A’s third baseman has been work 9.6 Defensive Wins Above Replacement, a stunning total. That mark far surpasses Arenado, who ranks second amongst third basemen in that time frame with 4.8 dWAR. In fact, only Andrelton Simmons, with 10.1 dWAR, was able to surpass Chapman, despite having played the entire three seasons.

Chapman has begun to get some recognition for his defensive prowess. Not only has he won the American League Gold Glove at third in each of the past two seasons, but he has also been the Platinum Glove winner both times. He has also been the Wilson Defensive Player of the Year in each of the past two seasons, ending Arenado’s three year reign in the process.

The best may still be yet to come with Chapman. He is just now entering his theoretical prime, as he will turn 27 on April 28. He knows the league and the players better, allowing him to better position himself defensively. As impressive as Chapman has been, he is still going to get better.

The Oakland Athletics may have the best defensive third baseman in the game today. In another year or two, this may no longer be an argument.