Cardinals rookie JJ Wetherholt emerges as favorite for National League Gold Glove

St. Louis Cardinals rookie JJ Wetherholt has been identified by analysts as the leading candidate for the National League Gold Glove at second base. Despite an injury that likely precludes him from National League Rookie of the Year contention, Wetherholt has established himself as one of the premier defensive players in Major League Baseball. Statistical analysis supports his candidacy, as he leads all major league second basemen with 21 Outs Above Average and a plus-21 fielding run value. Only Pete Crow-Armstrong of the Chicago Cubs holds a higher fielding run value across the league. While the Cardinals remain a fringe postseason team, Wetherholt’s defensive impact remains a significant component of the team's season. The Gold Glove award would provide individual recognition for his performance despite his restricted playing time.

• 4:52 PMYahoo Sports — Cardinals' JJ Wetherholt predicted to win MLB award, but not Rookie of the Year