Cody Bellinger has achieved Platinum status.
The Yankees outfielder, who was earlier named a Gold Glove recipient this week, earned the American League’s Platinum Glove award on Friday night, recognizing him as the best defensive player in the league.
On the National League side, Pete Crow-Armstrong, the Cubs’ center fielder and former Mets prospect, captured the same honor.
Only Gold Glove winners from each league qualify for the Platinum Glove, with the ultimate recipient chosen through fan voting.
Bellinger becomes just the second player from the Yankees to receive this prestigious defensive award, following catcher Jose Trevino’s win in 2022.
During the 2026 season, Bellinger appeared in 130 outfield games, primarily playing 123 of those in left field. He excelled defensively, ranking in the 87th percentile for fielding run value and the 91st percentile for outs above average, according to Baseball Savant.
He was third in all of Major League Baseball with 21 defensive runs saved.
Looking at traditional stats, Bellinger posted a .989 fielding percentage and contributed eight assists as an outfielder in 2026. Additionally, he demonstrated defensive flexibility by appearing in six games at first base.
This year was a standout one for Bellinger’s collection of accolades, as he also earned the All-Star Game MVP with a crucial two-run hit that helped the American League secure victory in Philadelphia last July.
Fan Take: Cody Bellinger’s Platinum Glove win highlights the increasing emphasis on elite defense in today’s game, showing fans that stellar fielding can be just as impactful as hitting. This recognition not only celebrates individual brilliance but also encourages younger players to sharpen their defensive skills, raising the overall level of play in baseball.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
