Javier Sanoja named National League Gold Glove finalist at third base

[Kevin Barral]

On Wednesday, Rawlings Baseball announced the finalists for the National League and American League Gold Glove Awards. Miami Marlins Javier Sanoja was one of three NL finalists at third base along with Alex Bregman of the Chicago Cubs and Max Muncy of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Sanoja is the only Marlin to be a finalist this year.

Last season, Sanoja won the NL utility Gold Glove. That snapped what had been an eight-year Gold Glove drought for the Marlins organization; prior to him, the most recent Marlins winner was Marcell Ozuna (LF in 2017).

Sanoja received more playing time in his second full MLB season and a more defined role. He had opportunities at six different non-pitcher positions, but mainly found a home at third base. In 119 games there (778 ⅓ innings), he posted five defensive runs saved (ranked sixth in NL) and six outs above average (tied for fourth in NL).

Bregman, a 2024 AL Gold Glover, is likely the main threat to Sanoja winning the award. The Cubs star has the stronger statistical case (15 DRS and 9 OAA) over a much bigger sample size (1,248 innings).

Sanoja is hoping to join an exclusive club. The only Marlins to ever win multiple Gold Gloves are Charles Johnson and Luis Castillo. Even if this isn't his year, Sanoja just turned 24 last month and has a long career ahead of him.

The Gold Glove winners will be announced on November 1.

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