2013 AL Gold Glove Finalists: Catchers

It’s that time of the year where the league hands out honors across the board, throughout the Major League.

Today I’ll be covering both the American League and National League players who are finalists when it comes to their position for Gold Glove honors.

Now in order to become a catcher in the Major Leagues, not only do you need to have one of the strongest arms on the field, but you need to be able to take a beating.

These guys behind the plate get hit with foul tips, sometimes bats after a follow through and even players themselves when they hurl themselves at home plate.

The three guys who are on this list have proved to be the best catchers in the American League not only defensively but offensively as well.

Let’s take a look at who made the cut.

Matt Wieters, Baltimore Orioles – Wieters is one of those talented catchers you want on your team. Not only can the guy be that anchor behind the plate, but he can also drive in runs. In the last three seasons, Wieters has hit 20+ home runs while driving in 40+ RBI’s. Last season as he picked up 1021 put outs in 1082 chances in 1201 innings played, so his fielding percentage improved a couple points as he fielded .997 compared to last seasons .991.

Salvador Perez, Kansas City Royals – A 23 year old second year player who can also drive in runs when he’s not stopping them from scoring. This season he hit .292/.323/.433  across the line with 13 home runs and 79 RBI’s. This is his first full year taking over the catchers position so you have to be doing pretty well if you manage to make final three for Gold Glove honors. Through 1115 innings his fielding percentage currently stands at .993 and he saw one game at first base. He was able to throw out 25 batters but allowed 46 stolen bases, almost splitting that stat in half. This kid has a bright future ahead of him.

Joe Mauer, Minnesota Twins – You can’t have an American League Gold Glove award without mentioning Joe Mauer. Mauer has easily been one of the best American League catchers this game has to offer as he’s already won three Gold Gloves in his career along with three batting titles, four Silver Slugger awards and MVP honors. This season Mauer hit .324/.404/.476 across the line with 11 home runs and 47 RBI’s. This season he seen eight starts at first base as he was moved from the catchers position after suffering a concussion. He still managed to field .996 from behind the plate.