The Fielding Bible Awards for the 2023 MLB season were announced Thursday, and Chicago Cubs star Dansby Swanson took home the honor for shortstops. Swanson was the only unanimous selection among this year's winners.
The Fielding Bible Awards are selected by a panel of experts who analyze defensive metrics and performance. Swanson led all MLB shortstops this season with 18 Defensive Runs Saved. He also tallied a +14 Runs Saved on balls hit to his right side, the most by any shortstop.
Swanson has always been regarded as a strong defensive player. But his performance reached new heights in 2022 and continued into the 2023 season. The Cubs signed Swanson in part for his elite glovework, and he has delivered as advertised.
In addition to the Fielding Bible Award, Swanson is also a finalist for the National League Gold Glove at shortstop. While the Fielding Bible Award does not guarantee a Gold Glove, it is a strong indicator that he will take home that honor as well.
Swanson joins Javier Baez among Cubs players to win a Fielding Bible Award at shortstop. Baez took home the award in 2020.
At 28 years old, Swanson is cementing himself as one of the best all-around shortstops in baseball. His defense has been a major asset for the Cubs, and this Fielding Bible Award recognizes his defensive excellence.
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