Best: Ke’Bryan Hayes, Pittsburgh Pirates/Cincinnati Reds
Metrics: 1,020.2 INN, 16 DRS, 17 OAA, 13 FRV, .985 fielding%
Hayes has piled up 87 DRS since his first full season in the big leagues in 2021, which is head and shoulders above Steven Kwan (64) for the most in the majors during that span. His 2023 NL Gold Glove win snapped a streak of 10 straight for Nolan Arenado at the hot corner, and he now stands as the game’s elite defensive third baseman.
Worst: Yoán Moncada, Los Angeles Angels
Metrics: 429.0 INN, -11 DRS, -8 OAA, -6 FRV, .944 fielding%
Moncada has been a useful hitter when healthy this season, posting a 112 OPS+ in 202 plate appearances, but most of his offensive value has been undercut by his dreadful defense. Originally signed and developed as a second baseman, he has never provided much in the way of defensive value, even at his peak.