Chicago White Sox center fielder Luis Robert won a Gold Glove on Tuesday, the first rookie in team history to win that honor. The rookie beat out all other American League center fielders for the award.
Robert, 23, is the fifth outfielder in White Sox history to win a Gold Glove, joining Ken Berry (1970), Tommie Agee (1966), Jim Landis (1961-64), and Minnie Miñoso (1957, ’60).
Robert posted a .994 fielding percentage in center field in 2020, committing one error in 154 chances. He led all American League outfielders in total chances and ranked sixth overall in defensive WAR (1.0).
Robert was tied for the lead among all MLB center fielders in Statcast’s Outs Above Average metric at +7. The rookie phenom also racked up eight defensive runs saved (DRS), third among AL center fielders behind only Byron Buxton and Kevin Kiermaier.
“I have always dreamed of winning a Gold Glove, so this is a dream come true. I joked around this season with Yolmer Sánchez about the possibility of winning it one day and being a Gold Glover like him,” Robert said in a statement. “I felt happy with my defense, but I know I can do more and be better. I have to thank Daryl Boston because he helped me adjust to the big leagues and taught me to take better advantage of my defensive skills. This award is a motivation for me.”
Robert said
Luis Robert spent his rookie season showing off all of his much-hyped tools, including those he put on display while playing defense in the outfield. A combination of speed, athleticism, and acrobatics produced more than a couple of jaw-dropping plays, none more memorable than a ridiculous diving catch in Kansas City.
Robert also is a candidate for the AL Rookie of the Year Award, which will be announced on Nov. 9.
