Baseball is a beloved sport with an incredible history, and it has many awards and accolades that players can strive for, as well as traditions and customs. One such award is the Platinum Glove Award, an individual award given to the best overall fielding player in each league, regardless of position. The award has been given out since 2011, and is sponsored by Rawlings. In the following article, we will discuss what the Platinum Glove Award is, who has won it and how it is determined.
What is the Platinum Glove Award?
The Platinum Glove Award is an annual honor given to the best defensive player in each league, regardless of position. It is given out by Rawlings, who also makes the official baseball for Major League Baseball (MLB). The award recognizes the best overall fielding player in each league, based on a combination of traditional and advanced metrics. It is given out based on a vote by a panel of experts, and is the highest defensive honor a player can receive.
Who Has Won the Platinum Glove Award?
The Platinum Glove Award has been given out since 2011, and there have been many winners over the years. The first Platinum Glove Award winner was Yadier Molina of the St. Louis Cardinals in the National League, and Adrian Beltre of the Texas Rangers in the American League. Other notable winners include Francisco Lindor, Nolan Arenado, Andrelton Simmons, Mookie Betts and Mike Trout.
How is the Platinum Glove Award Determined?
The Platinum Glove Award is determined by a panel of experts who vote on the best fielding player in each league. The panel is comprised of former players, coaches and other baseball experts who analyze a combination of traditional and advanced fielding metrics, including fielding percentage, Total Zone Runs, Ultimate Zone Rating and Defensive Runs Saved. The panel then votes on the best overall fielder in each league, and the winner is announced at the Rawlings Gold Glove Awards ceremony.
What are the Benefits of Winning the Platinum Glove Award?
Winning the Platinum Glove Award is a great honor for any player, and there are many benefits that come with it. The most obvious benefit is the recognition that comes with winning the award, as it recognizes a player as the best overall fielder in their respective league. Additionally, the winner also receives a special Rawlings Platinum Glove Award trophy and a $100,000 check.
Conclusion
The Platinum Glove Award is a prestigious honor that recognizes the best overall fielding player in each league. It is awarded by Rawlings and is determined by a panel of experts who vote on the best overall fielder, based on a combination of traditional and advanced metrics. Winning the award comes with many benefits, including recognition, a special trophy and a cash prize.