Stat of the Week: Unveiling the Year-End Awards
This week, we're spotlighting the top performers in a unique set of year-end awards, focusing on skills that might not always get the spotlight. From home run robbing to barehand catches and exceptional fielding, these awards celebrate the unsung heroes of the game.
The Homer Robber Award
This award goes to the player who made the most spectacular home run robbing catches in 2025. The title goes to Padres right fielder Fernando Tatis Jr., who successfully robbed 4 home runs. This was a record-breaking season for home run robbing catches, with 88 in total, surpassing the previous year's 78.
The Who Needs A Glove Award?
This award recognizes the player with the most barehand plays, where fielders catch the ball without using a glove. We break this down by position: catchers, third basemen, and others. Patrick Bailey led the catchers with 15 successful plays, while Alex Bregman of the Red Sox topped third basemen with 13. Among non-catchers and third basemen, Mariners pitcher Bryan Woo had 6.
The Vacuum Cleaner Award
This award celebrates the best ground ball fielding plays, where players make out on ground balls. The winners were Brewers shortstop Joey Ortiz and Phillies second baseman Bryson Stott. Despite Stott's -6 Runs Saved due to double play struggles, both players showcased highlight-reel moments.
The Fly Swatter Award
Similar to the Vacuum Cleaner Award, this one honors fly ball fielding plays resulting in outs. Tigers left fielder Riley Greene and Twins/Phillies outfielder Harrison Bader led with 19 each. Greene's -5 Runs Saved was due to baserunner advancement, while Bader is a top defensive free agent.
The Stolen Base Stopper
This award goes to the catcher and pitcher who saved the most runs from stolen bases in 2025. Red Sox catcher Carlos Narváez led with 7 Stolen Base Runs Saved, while Matthew Boyd of the Tigers led pitchers with 5. Their combined efforts showcased exceptional defensive skills.
The Hall of Framer
This award recognizes the catcher with the best pitch-framing skills, measured by called strikes above expectations. Patrick Bailey dominated this category for the second year in a row, with 120 called strikes above expectations. Austin Wells and Alejandro Kirk followed closely behind.
These awards highlight the diverse skills that contribute to a team's success, often overlooked in traditional statistics. Stay tuned for more insights and discussions on the fascinating world of baseball analytics!
