For all of the Phillies’ problems in the second half of the season, defense — mostly — was not a central one. That fact was reflected in Tuesday’s unveiling of the 2024 Gold Glove finalists.
Four Phillies made the shortlist: Bryson Stott at second base, Brandon Marsh in left field, Zack Wheeler at pitcher and Bryce Harper at first base.
That Harper is a finalist for the award is quite impressive in his first full season at first base. He may not win his first Gold Glove — Christian Walker led the NL in outs above average, Matt Olson in defensive runs saved — but Harper had seven OOA and five DRS at one of the more underrated positions on the diamond from a fielding standpoint.