Giants' Patrick Bailey Named MLB's Top Defensive Player

Giants catcher Patrick Bailey has been named MLB's No. 1 defensive player by analyst Mike Petriello, backed by consecutive Gold Gloves (2024-2025) and leading Statcast Fielding Run Value every year since his 2023 debut (+79 runs). While his bat lags, his elite framing (+65 runs) and throwing (+16 runs, 29% caught stealing) are exceptional. His blocking has also improved to above average. Even with the 2026 ABS system, Bailey is expected to remain a top defensive force.