ALDS 2016: 5 reasons Indians will win

3. Defense

Defense is very important in the playoffs. If you think otherwise, perhaps you should ask the Texas Rangers, who lost the World Series in 2011 thanks to some terrible defensive plays. Boston’s defense is pretty good, especially in the outfield. However, Cleveland has a huge advantage defensively over Boston.

Fangraphs ranks the Indians as the fifth-best defensive team in the majors this season. Their infield defense in particular has been outstanding. Francisco Lindor ought to win the American League Gold Glove because his fielding metrics are outstanding and his range is seemingly infinite. Jason Kipnis provides a ton of value at second base as well. Jose Ramirez has emerged as a great defensive third baseman, giving Cleveland a great defensive infield.

Their outfield is not quite as good as Boston’s but it’s still very good. Rajai Davis provides a lot of speed and his defense is excellent. Even though he is primarily a platoon hitter, Davis gives Cleveland an excellent defensive replacement option.

Behind the plate, Yan Gomes is phenomenal and ranks among the best pitch framers in baseball. They also have Chris Gimenez and Roberto Perez, suggesting perhaps Francona will find ways to use them off the bench. It also gives Cleveland opportunities to pinch hit and pinch run for their catchers, who aren’t the best of hitters.