Over the years, the Oakland A’s have become known for their defensive prowess. With stalwarts Matt Olson and Matt Chapman at the corners, and Mark Canha and Ramon Laureano in the outfield, the A’s ability to prevent runs has gone a long way towards their remaining contenders in the AL West.
It is not a surprise that the A’s would be recognized when it comes to the Gold Glove award. On Thursday, a trio of A’s – Chapman, Olson, and Sean Murphy – were named as finalists for the award.
Congratulations to Sean Murphy, Matt Olson, and Matt Chapman on being named 2021 Gold Glove Award finalists! #RawlingsGoldGloveAwards pic.twitter.com/kgrosSMBD5
— Oakland A's (@Athletics) October 28, 2021
Oakland A’s trio deserving of Gold Glove awards
Murphy was viewed as a potential Gold Glove winner when he was ascending through the minors. While his competition is stiff this season, he may well take home the award. He ranked second amongst AL catchers with ten runs saved defensively, and was rated as the best pitch framer in the league.
Olson already has a pair of Gold Gloves on his mantle, having won the award in 2018 and 2019. He may end up with his third this season as his presence at first made the rest of the A’s infield that much better. He led AL first basemen with six runs saved defensively, leading the league in fielding percentage and ranking second in range factor.
Chapman, a two time Platinum Glove winner, may be adding more hardware to his trophy case as well. He recovered from his torn hip labrum to put on a show defensively at the hot corner, leading AL third basemen with 17 outs above average, ten more than second place. Even if he was hobbled at the plate, Chapman’s glove was still able to make a difference.
The Oakland A’s have been able to find success due to their defense. That may be recognized with some hardware in the coming weeks.