The Royals are sending a strong defensive message into this year’s Rawlings Gold Glove race.
Four Kansas City players - Vinnie Pasquantino, Michael Massey, Nick Loftin and Bobby Witt Jr. - were named finalists for the annual award, which recognizes the best fielding performances at each position. Winners are determined through a mix of votes from MLB managers and coaches, along with the SABR Defensive Index.
Witt is back in familiar territory. He’s now a finalist for the third time, after making the cut in 2024 and 2025 and winning both years. He also took home the Rawlings Platinum Glove Award in 2025, the league’s top defensive honor.
His 2026 season gave him another elite case. Witt finished third among American League shortstops with 326 assists, tied for seventh with a .981 fielding percentage, and led all AL players with 24 Outs Above Average. He also paced the league with 18 runs prevented.
The other three Royals on the finalist list are there for the first time.
Pasquantino earned his spot despite two stints on the injured list, posting a .994 fielding percentage that tied him for eighth among American League first basemen. He also helped turn 93 double plays, fifth among AL first basemen.
Massey turned in a career-high 114 starts at second base and delivered a .990 fielding percentage. He was part of 69 double plays, second among American League second basemen.
Loftin’s path was a little different. He played six positions this past season, but spent most of his time at third base, where he made 64 starts. Even with all that movement, his 6 Outs Above Average and 5 Runs Prevented tied him for the lead among American League third basemen.
The Royals highlighted all four finalists on social media Wednesday.
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