Cubs’ infielder brings home 2nd career gold glove award

Hoerner being recognized once again for his elite defense, earning the 2025 Gold Glove Award at second base, further cements his reputation as one of the premier defensive infielders in the game. This year, Fangraphs graded him at 21 Defensive Runs Saved (DRS), and Baseball Savant 15 Outs Above Average (OAA).

A DRS of 21 was the second most in the National League, trailing only Turang, whereas a 15 DRS was the most in the National League, and by a wide margin.  It’s worth noting that these different defensive metrics measure performance in slightly different ways, which can lead to varying results. Even with these differences, both metrics provide strong, objective insights into defensive performance.

Hoerner’s 2025 season further solidified his status as one of baseball’s premier defensive second basemen. His ability to make difficult plays look routine, turn double plays efficiently, and cover significant ground up the middle gives the Cubs a defensive anchor few teams can match. He is under contract with Chicago for just one more season, and very easily could find himself in the running for a third Gold Glove in 2026.