The Chicago Cubs may have had a disappointing 2024 season on the diamond as a team, but several players had quality individual seasons. Among those players are left fielder Ian Happ and shortstop Dansby Swanson, who are both finalists for the Rawlings Gold Glove Award at their respective positions in the National League.
Swanson won the award in 2022 and 2023 as a member of the Atlanta Braves and Cubs, respectively. Now, Swanson has a chance for the three-peat after another quality season on the defensive end. Swanson’s struggles at the plate were well-documented, but another 18 outs above average, putting him in the 99th percentile, gives him the Gold Glove finalist nod.
Swanson is joined by Colorado Rockies shortstop Ezequiel Tovar and St. Louis Cardinals’ shortstop Masyn Winn among the group of finalists.
Ian Happ is in the same boat as Swanson, going for his third straight NL Gold Glove in left field. Happ won his first Gold Glove in 2022 and has been one of the best defensive left fielders in the sport.
Happ won the award in 2022 thanks to his 78th percentile Range value. In 2023, it was his 89th percentile Arm value that secured the award. In 2024, his metrics are down, but he has a more complete body of work in his defensive profile.
Happ is joined by Arizona Diamondbacks left fielder Lourdes Gurriel Jr. and Philadelphia Phillies left fielder Brandon Marsh among the group of finalists.
