Oakland A’s go two out of three in Gold Glove awards

The Oakland A’s entered Sunday night with three Gold Glove candidates. Matt Chapman, Sean Murphy, and Matt Olson were all nominated for the defensive award, worthy candidates whose gloves made a difference for the A’s last season.

In the end, the A’s went two for three in winning Gold Glove awards. Chapman and Murphy emerged victorious at their positions on Sunday night.

Matt Chapman and Sean Murphy win Gold Glove awards

Murphy had been viewed as a future Gold Glove winner as he was progressing through the minors. He was credited with ten runs saved behind the plate while turning six double plays and throwing out 24% of would-be base stealers. He fulfilled that projection as he took home his first Gold Glove award.

For Chapman, this marks his third Gold Glove award. He saved ten runs at third, leading AL third basemen in putouts, range factor, and fielding percentage. Chapman also has a chance to go three for three in Platinum Gloves, as the fans will be voting for the award from amongst the Gold Glove winners.

Olson certainly deserved a Gold Glove award as well. He ranked second amongst AL first basemen in putouts, assists, and range factor while leading the league in fielding percentage. He was credited with saving six runs at first, his presence helping make the rest of the A’s infield look that much better.

It remains to be seen if this will be the last Gold Glove that Chapman wins with the A’s. He has come up as a possible trade candidate, although his struggles with the bat last season may limit any potential return. The Gold Glove does show that his hip is better, but teams may not want to pay that much for someone who is trending towards becoming a glove first third baseman.

The Oakland A’s were two for three in Gold Glove awards on Sunday night. Congratulations are in order for Matt Chapman and Sean Murphy.