Kansas City Royals continue impressive Gold Glove streak

Defense has been a key for the Kansas City Royals since the beginning of their history. Beginning with Amos Otis in 1971, continuing with the likes of Frank White, and into the present with Alex Gordon and Salvador Perez, the Royals defense has been a difference maker. It certainly took center stage during their run in 2014 and 2015, as their glovework played a large part in their success.

That continued to be the case last season. Although the Royals had a disappointing record, Andrew Benintendi and Michael Taylor continued the franchise’s history of excellent defense, winning the Gold Glove award at their respective positions. This marked the 11th consecutive season that a member of the Royals took home the award.

Kansas City Royals extend Gold Glove streak

It is fair to wonder how much the Royals’ emphasis on defense has mattered. They have just three winning seasons in that 11 year streak, all coming when their focus on contact and a buzzsaw of a bullpen led to consecutive World Series appearances. Run prevention only matters so much when the offense is unable to contribute.

The Royals still value that defense even if it has not made an impact in the standings. Taylor received a two year extension worth $9 million at the end of the season, in large part because of his defense. While he does have some pop and decent speed, his contact issues led to a 76 OPS+, making him borderline unplayable. However, he saved 19 runs in center while leading the league in range factor, keeping him in the lineup.

Benintendi was far more useful overall. He produced a 104 OPS+, hitting 17 homers and 27 doubles with respectable contact rates. Defensively, he saved seven runs while leading AL left fielders in total zone runs and fielding percentage. Benintendi continued the brilliant defensive history in left that started with Gordon.

Chances are, that streak will continue into the future. Perez is a perennial Gold Glove candidate and was nominated this year. It is a matter of time before Nicky Lopez begins to win Gold Gloves, either at short or second. That defensive focus is not going to change, but maybe it will start to lead to some wins once the Royals find the offense to go along with those gloves.

The Kansas City Royals have had at least one Gold Glove winner for 11 consecutive years. That streak may not end any time soon.