Yankees Defenders Earn Gold Glove Finalist Honors

The Yankees’ top three defenders have received recognition for their consistent performances throughout the season.

Austin Wells, Cody Bellinger, and José Caballero were announced as American League Gold Glove finalists on Wednesday. For Wells and Caballero, this is their first time being recognized in this way, while Bellinger is in the running for his second award, with the winners set to be revealed next month.

Wells faces competition from Dillon Dingler of the Tigers and Brandon Valenzuela of the Blue Jays for the catcher position. In left field, Bellinger’s contenders are Wyatt Langford from the Rangers and Chandler Simpson from the Rays. Caballero’s competition for the utility spot includes Ezequiel Duran, a former Yankee prospect now with the Rangers, and Zach McKinstry of the Tigers.

Bellinger, who won a Gold Glove previously as a right fielder in 2019, led all left fielders this season with 21 Defensive Runs Saved. He also had six Outs Above Average, ranking second overall, just behind Simpson. While Bellinger was recognized for his defensive capabilities before, he really elevated his game in 2026, primarily playing left field. However, he also contributed in center and right field, and even saw time at first base. The Yankees leaned towards keeping him in left field, where he truly excelled.

Surprisingly, when Wells entered the majors in 2023, not many expected him to eventually become a Gold Glove finalist. He was more noted for his batting prowess back then, with some lingering doubts about his defensive skills. Over time, he focused on those areas and has made a name for himself as one of the top defensive catchers. His eight Defensive Runs Saved ranked third among AL catchers, and he achieved a Fielding Run Value of 10, placing him sixth among all major league catchers. Wells was also tied for third in Catcher Framing Runs and seventh in Blocks Above Average, all while supporting a pitching staff that led the majors in ERA, with many pitchers praising his abilities behind the plate.

Caballero demonstrated versatility this season by playing six different positions, including shortstop, third base, second base, and all three outfield spots. He recorded 12 Defensive Runs Saved, with a standout performance at shortstop where he totaled 13 DRS. He started the season in that position while Anthony Volpe was recovering from shoulder surgery.