The Chicago Cubs just flipped the baseball world upside down — six players, one team, and a defensive statement that’s shaking the sport to its core. From the ivy-lined outfield to the dirt of the infield, Wrigley Field has become a fortress of gold.
In a stunning announcement from Rawlings and Major League Baseball, the Cubs led all teams with six Gold Glove finalists, underscoring their transformation into one of the most defensively elite teams in baseball history. It’s a feat that not only speaks to Chicago’s depth and discipline but also signals the birth of a new defensive dynasty on the North Side.
A Record-Breaking Defensive Unit
The Cubs’ finalists include Justin Steele (P), Brad Keller (RP), Dansby Swanson (SS), Pete Crow-Armstrong (CF), Seiya Suzuki (RF), and Matt Shaw (3B) — a balance of youth and experience that perfectly reflects the franchise’s long-term vision.
The selections mark the first time in franchise history that Chicago has produced six Gold Glove finalists in a single season — a testament to both player development and the meticulous preparation of manager Craig Counsell’s staff.
“This group takes pride in defense the way others take pride in hitting home runs,” Counsell said after the announcement. “They’re built for moments that don’t always make the highlight reels — but they win games.”
From Grass to Gold: The Rise of a Defensive Powerhouse
Leading the charge is Pete Crow-Armstrong, whose jaw-dropping range and fearless approach in center field made him the heartbeat of Wrigley’s outfield. His 16 Defensive Runs Saved (DRS) ranked among the top five in MLB, and his acrobatic catches became a nightly feature on highlight reels.
Dansby Swanson, a former Gold Glove winner, continues to anchor the infield with precision and leadership, while rookie Matt Shaw turned heads with his lightning-fast reflexes at third base.
Meanwhile, the pitching staff’s defensive discipline has been equally remarkable. Justin Steele’s calm fielding presence and Brad Keller’s quick reactions on comebackers solidified one of the cleanest defensive units in baseball. Seiya Suzuki, quietly elite in right field, posted a near-perfect fielding percentage and gunned down eight runners this season.
Numbers Don’t Lie
This wasn’t just eye test excellence — the metrics tell the same story. The Cubs finished the 2025 regular season ranked:
- 1st in Team Defensive Runs Saved (64)
- 2nd in Defensive Efficiency Rating (.713)
- 3rd in Outfield Assists (31)
- Top 5 in Fielding Percentage (.989)
That combination of athleticism, fundamentals, and situational awareness made them a nightmare for opposing offenses.
“Every inning feels like a fight,” said one NL rival. “They steal hits, they steal momentum — and before you know it, your rally’s gone.”
The Culture Shift Under Counsell
When Craig Counsell took over managerial duties, his vision for the Cubs was clear: blend young energy with veteran steadiness, and prioritize defense first. That philosophy has now paid off spectacularly.
Players credit Counsell’s daily defensive drills, advanced scouting data, and a culture that treats run prevention as an art form. The result? A roster built to win not just in the box score, but in the margins that define championship teams.
A Glimpse of the Future
The Cubs’ rise as a defensive juggernaut signals more than a single-season achievement — it’s the foundation for a long-term identity. With Crow-Armstrong, Shaw, and Suzuki entering their primes, and Swanson and Steele anchoring the veteran core, Chicago’s defensive excellence isn’t a trend. It’s the beginning of a legacy.
And as the Gold Glove winners prepare to be announced in early November, one thing is certain: the 2025 Cubs didn’t just protect Wrigley Field — they redefined what defensive baseball looks like in the modern era.
“We’re not just catching balls,” said Crow-Armstrong with a grin. “We’re setting standards.”
