3 MLB Contenders Who Should Claim 2019 Gold Glove Winner Yolmer Sanchez off Waivers

Yolmer Sanchez proved that he is one of the best defensive middle infielders in the game, but hitting .252 with two home runs in 149 games doesn't guarantee you a roster spot in 2019. Sanchez learned this lesson the hard way as the Chicago White Sox put him on waivers, potentially to open up a spot for top prospect Nick Madrigal. These three contenders could use a nice boost to their infield defense, and Sanchez can provide just that.

3. Tampa Bay Rays

An OPS+ of 73 might not be what the number crunchers in Tampa Bay want to see from a potential acquisition, but Sanchez could help bolster an already strong defense that ranked in the top-10 in fielding percentage in 2019. The likes of Brandon Lowe, Willy Adames, and Joey Wendle already have the starting spots locked down, but Sanchez would be a nice late-inning defensive addition who wins them a game or two with his glove.

2. New York Yankees

While a Didi Gregorius exit is looking more likely after the emergence of Gio Urshela, the Yankees could still look for a backup to spell the likes of Gleyber Torres and DJ LeMahieu. Sanchez wouldn't offer either starter much of a challenge, but he'll provide award-winning defense at second that can keep their two starting infielders fresh as they gear up for another World Series push.

1. Chicago Cubs

The Cubs ranked second in the league in terms of errors committed, with their 118 trailing only division rival Pittsburgh across all of baseball. Sanchez clearly doesn't have the pop in his bat to take at-bats away from the likes of Javier Baez, but he's the best possible option available to fix Chicago's biggest issue. Making the Cubs one of the most improved defensive teams in the league is a good way for David Ross to earn some brownie points.