Cody Bellinger’s first season in the Bronx is already earning hardware attention.
After the Yankees’ year ended with a sweep at the hands of the Tampa Bay Rays in the ALDS, one of the clearest bright spots from the regular season has now been recognized again: Bellinger was named an American League Gold Glove finalist in left field on Wednesday.
The 31-year-old arrived last winter on a five-year, $162.5 million deal and delivered exactly the kind of all-around production New York wanted. He made his third career All-Star team and hit .264 with a .338 on-base percentage and a .768 OPS over 132 games.
His offense wasn’t the only reason he stood out. Bellinger has developed into one of the sport’s top defensive left fielders, even though he no longer plays center. Baseball Savant credited him with a Fielding Run Value of 8 and an Outs Above Average of 6, and his arm repeatedly discouraged runners from trying to take the extra base.
The Yankees highlighted the honor on X, writing, “Congratulations to our @RawlingsSports Gold Glove finalists: Austin Wells, Cody Bellinger & José Caballero ,”
The response from fans came quickly.
“Well deserved Belli ⚾️,” wrote a fan.
“Bellinger is very deserving,” added another.
One more said, “Really hoping Bellinger gets it, he deserves it after the amount of carrying he had to do.”
“Belli!!” wrote another.
“Bellinger should be the favorite,” said one fan.
To win, Bellinger will need to edge Wyatt Langford of the Texas Rangers and Chandler Simpson of the Rays. A victory would give him the second Gold Glove of his career. Rawlings will announce the winners on Sunday, November 1st.
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