Red Sox 2017 Review: Top 10 moments of the year

By Sean Penney | Dec 27, 2017

BOSTON, MA - OCTOBER 09: Andrew Benintendi #16 of the Boston Red Sox celebrates with Mookie Betts #50 after hitting a two-run home run in the fifth inning against the Houston Astros during game four of the American League Division Series at Fenway Park on October 9, 2017 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /

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HOUSTON, TX – OCTOBER 06: Mookie Betts (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /

Gold Glove for Mookie

Mookie Betts took a step back at the plate this year but his defense did not disappoint. The star right fielder captured his second consecutive Gold Glove while continuing to build a case for being the top defensive player at any position.

Betts led all major league outfielders with 31 defensive runs saved, putting him seven ahead of the next best outfielder. No other American League right fielder cracked double-digits. His off-the-charts 20.5 UZR was the best by a player at any position.

The eight outfield assists that Betts recorded were only sixth in the majors at his position, although that is mostly due to opposing baserunners knowing better than to run on him. In case they needed a reminder, Betts put on a display at this year’s All-Star Game to nail Nolan Arenado on his way to second base.

Betts winning a Gold Glove was about as sure a bet as you would find this year. Even in a year where his offensive production dipped, the value Betts provides with his defense is one reason why he still boasted a 6.4 WAR that ranked 6th in the AL this year.

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