Top 10 MLB defensive players ranked by Fielding Run Value in 2026
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 22, 2026, 12:48 PM
Last updated Jun 22, 2026
The 2026 MLB season sees a new ranking of the top defensive players based on Fielding Run Value (FRV), a metric that quantifies how many runs a defender saves compared to a league-average player at their position. Leading the roster is Pete Crow-Armstrong of the Chicago Cubs, with an impressive +15.79 FRV, showcasing exceptional range and arm strength. Following him is St. Louis Cardinals' JJ Wetherholt at +12.22 FRV, and Kansas City Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. at +12.00 FRV, both recognized for their significant contributions to their teams' defensive efforts. This ranking reflects ongoing evaluations in advanced defensive analytics that continue to shape player assessments during the season.
- •Pete Crow-Armstrong leads with +15.79 FRV for the Cubs.
- •JJ Wetherholt ranks second with +12.22 FRV for the Cardinals.
- •Bobby Witt Jr. holds third place at +12.00 FRV for the Royals.
- •Advanced analytics such as FRV influence team strategies and individual evaluations.
- •The rankings encompass all nine positions, highlighting the best defenders.
- 12:48 PMYahoo Sports — 10 best MLB defensive players in 2026 according to advanced metrics
- 12:12 PMYahoo Sports — 10 best MLB base stealers in 2026 according to advanced metrics
"Fielding Run Value (FRV) is a unified fielding metric that expresses how many runs above average a defender has saved relative to a league-average player at the same position. It covers all nine positions, including catchers, on a single run…
"In MLB, every 90 feet matters, as we see some teams stealing wins on the basepaths. Beyond raw steal totals, advanced metrics can capture a Steal Run Value, a modeled success probability derived from the specific pitcher and catcher faced,…
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJun 22, 2026, 12:48 PM10 best MLB defensive players in 2026 according to advanced metrics
Fielding Run Value (FRV) is a unified fielding metric that expresses how many runs above average a defender has saved relative to a league-average player at the same position. It covers all nine positions, including catchers, on a single run…
- Yahoo SportsJun 22, 2026, 12:12 PM10 best MLB base stealers in 2026 according to advanced metrics
In MLB, every 90 feet matters, as we see some teams stealing wins on the basepaths. Beyond raw steal totals, advanced metrics can capture a Steal Run Value, a modeled success probability derived from the specific pitcher and catcher faced,…
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