The Los Angeles Dodgers were named the Defensive Team of the Year, adding to Yasiel Puig being named the Wilson Defensive Player of the Year for right field. Puig was a finalist for a Gold Glove Award, which went to Jason Heyward of the Chicago Cubs a fourth straight year.
Unlike the Gold Glove, Wilson recognizes just one player at each position. Since 2014, they’ve recognized the top overall defensive team. For individual and the team awards, Wilson determines a winner based on a formula that combines traditional defensive stats with advanced metrics, and data logged by scouting service Inside Edge.
The Dodgers taking home the team award is a first in franchise history. Per Inside Edge, the club converted 39 non-routine plays out of 146 chances during the second half of the season.
They ranked fifth overall in such instances, and their 26.7 percent conversion rate after the All-Star break was superior to the league average of 21.6 percent.
Moreover, the Dodgers finished second overall with a .719 defensive efficiency (.719) and with 68 defensive runs saved. Their 24.5 defensive rating was fifth-best, and the Dodgers ranked sixth with a 20.5 universal zone rating.
In addition to Puig playing a stellar right field, the Dodgers received strong showings from Cody Bellinger at first base, Justin Turner at third base, and Chris Taylor in center field.
Corey Seager’s steady play at shortstop earned him a spot as a finalist for a Gold Glove Award, which went to Brandon Crawford of the San Francisco Giants.
