Trio of Dodgers Awarded Gold Gloves

Last night Rawlings announced the winners of the 2011 Gold Glove Awards, and three Dodgers captured the prize for their position in the National League. Matt Kemp picked up his second Gold Glove for center field. He also won a Gold Glove for the 2009 season. Andre Ethier was awarded his first

ever Gold Glove for his defensive performance in right field. Clayton Kershaw also received his first Gold Glove for NL pitcher.

This is the first time in Dodgers history that three players recieved the honor in the same year, and the first time two outfielders captured the prize at the same time as well.

Matt Kemp had a league leading 11 outfield assists, and Ethier, without an error this season, had a 1.000 fielding percentage. Dre and Shane Victorino were the only qualifying players to accomplish a perfect fielding percentage in the NL. Ethier also had 8 assists and led all NL right fielders with a .903 zone rating. Clayton Kershaw lead NL pitchers with no errors and 9 pickoffs.

The Dodgers have now won 41 Rawlings Gold Glove Awards in their history.

Rawlings started the Gold Glove Award in 1957 as the greatest measure of fielding excellence.  The award is presented every season to 18 players – one for each position – in both leagues.  Winners are selected by managers and coaches prior to the conclusion of the regular season.  Managers and coaches may not vote for players from their own club and can only vote for players in their own league.

Congrats to Andre, Matt, and Clayton! Keep up the golden defense!