Gallo, Kiner-Falefa named Gold Glove finalists

Isiah Kiner-Falefa and Joey Gallo have each been named finalists for the Rawlings Gold Glove Award, with Kiner-Falefa being a finalist at third base and Gallo being a finalist at third base.

Kiner-Falefa, who returned to playing the infield late in 2019 after previously having worked at catcher for several years, earned the starting third base job to start the 2020 season, pushing free agent Todd Frazier to first base. Kiner-Falefa was first in the American League and second in the majors in Defensive Runs Saved at +8 and in Outs Above Average at +5, trailing only Nolan Arenado in each category. He was 7th in the majors and 4th in the American League in UZR.

Gallo, who was a third baseman originally and who (much to the consternation of some Rangers fans) was ultimately moved to the outfield, has excelled defensively since moving to right field. Gallo leads the majors in DRS among right fielders at +12 — the only other right fielder who is above +2 in 2020 is Mookie Betts, at +11. Gallo also leads the majors among right fielders in UZR in 2020, and is tied with Adam Engel and Gregory Polanco for second in OAA among right fielders in the majors, trailing only Betts.

Kiner-Falefa is vying with Yoan Moncado and Gio Urshela for the Gold Glove at third base. Gallo is going up against Clint Frazier and Anthony Santander for the Gold Glove at right field.