I like to keep track of all the major Seattle sports awards winners HERE. What constitutes “major” is obviously up for debate, but, you know, it’s my blog and I’ll cry if I want to.
Evan White (first base) and J.P. Crawford (short stop) just won gold gloves! That’s incredibly encouraging since both figure to be significant parts of the Mariners’ rebuild. Evan White, of course, was a known defensive prodigy at first base when we drafted him in the first round in 2017. Normally, with someone so athletic – and with nominal power respective to traditional first baseman-types – organizations like to convert those types of players to other positions (second base, corner outfield) to try to extract more value. The Mariners, from day-one, were dedicated to keeping White at his preferred defensive position, confident that his prowess will more than make up for any limitations in power hitting. With this being White’s rookie season, and him being one-for-one in Gold Glove opportunities, I’d say the Mariners made the right decision.
I wondered, of course, if his reputation preceeded him in sort of rubber-stamping this award in his favor, but the defensive metrics back him up (as you can read towards the end of this article HERE). I’ll admit, though, I was surprised J.P. Crawford even made the top three, let alone won it for short stop, but as you can read in that article, the metrics bear out for him as well.
When we first heard about Crawford coming over from the Phillies organization, I seem to recall the word on the street was that he had plus-defensive ability, but he was still a little raw and unrefined. Compared to his bat, I think the defense was always ahead, but I guess I never anticipated he’d rank among the top in the league. So, it’s truly outstanding to see him win this award, and come to the realization that he truly earned it. There are some great short stops in the American League, so to be this consistently great – even in a 60-game season – is absolutely fantastic!
It is, as I mentioned above, all the more important that it’s our young guys winning these awards, as it shows we’re heading in the right direction with the rebuild. Even more exciting is the upcoming Rookie of the Year announcement next Monday, as Kyle Lewis was already named in the top three and figures to be the favorite to win the award. And, speaking of Gold Gloves, while Lewis wasn’t quite as consistent defensively, he still flashed some sparkling glovework at times and this could very well be something to look forward to in his future as well.
2020 wasn’t perfect for the Mariners, but it was better than I possibly could’ve imagined. Let’s hope we see that trajectory continue on its upward path!