Three Yankees Named Finalists for American League Gold Glove Awards

Three New York Yankees players — Austin Wells, Cody Bellinger, and José Caballero — have been named finalists for the American League Gold Glove awards, recognizing their outstanding defensive performances during the season. This marks the first time Wells and Caballero have reached finalist status for the prestigious award, while Bellinger is a strong contender for his second career Gold Glove.

Wells is a finalist at catcher, competing against Dillon Dingler of the Detroit Tigers and Brandon Valenzuela of the Toronto Blue Jays. Bellinger is a finalist in left field, facing competition from Wyatt Langford of the Texas Rangers and Chandler Simpson of the Tampa Bay Rays. Caballero is a finalist for the utility player award, with his competitors being Ezequiel Duran of the Rangers, a former Yankees prospect, and Zach McKinstry of the Tigers.

Bellinger, who previously won a Gold Glove in right field in 2019, led all American League left fielders with 21 Defensive Runs Saved this season. His six Outs Above Average tied for second place, trailing only Simpson. While known for his defensive capabilities, Bellinger elevated his play in left field in 2026, also seeing time at center field, right field, and first base. The Yankees primarily utilized him in left field due to his proficiency at the position.

Wells, who arrived in the majors in 2023 with a reputation for offense and some questions about his defense, has transformed into one of the game's premier defensive catchers. He recorded eight Defensive Runs Saved, ranking third among AL catchers, and a Fielding Run Value of 10, which placed him sixth among all major league backstops. Wells also ranked third in Catcher Framing Runs and seventh in Blocks Above Average. His work behind the plate was instrumental as the Yankees' pitching staff led the majors in ERA, with pitchers frequently commending his performance.

Caballero showcased remarkable versatility throughout the season, playing at six different positions: shortstop, third base, second base, and all three outfield spots. He accumulated 12 Defensive Runs Saved, with his strongest performance coming at shortstop where he posted 13 Defensive Runs Saved. He began the year as the Yankees' starting shortstop while Anthony Volpe recovered from shoulder surgery.