The best defensive players in baseball

Apr 29, 2014; Miami, FL, USA; Atlanta Braves shortstop Andrelton Simmons (19) is unable to make a catch during the fourth inning against the Miami Marlins at Marlins Ballpark. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Shortstop: Andrelton Simmons, Atlanta Braves

Never mind being the best defensive shortstop, Andrelton Simmons is the best defensive player in the game. You know what? I think before his career is all said and done, he could be the best defensive player ever. Whilst he has only been in the big leagues one full year, Simmons showed defense like no other in 2013 in easing his way to the Rawlings Gold Glove.

In 1352 innings at shortstop, Simmons made 240 putouts, had 499 assists, and made only 14 errors at one of the toughest positions to play. Simmons helped turn 86 double plays and compiled a .981 fielding percentage. Over his career, he has turned 10% of “remote” plays and 50% of “unlikely” plays.

These next metrics are truly extraordinary. Last season, Simmons saved an incredible 41 runs whilst making 373 plays due to his defensive ability.  His UZR comes in at 24.6 and to put that into context, a Gold Glove caliber player is considered to be around 15. Probably strictly down to his defense, his RAR – a WAR that takes into account many more statistics – stands at 43.0 runs above replacement.

Contenders: Brandon Crawford and Alcides Escobar