Reds' Gold Glove exclusion gives their defensive focus a new goal for 2027

No Cincinnati Reds players were named Gold Glove finalists for 2026, highlighting defensive struggles under manager Terry Francona despite his emphasis on clean baseball. The team committed 89 errors, ranked 16th in outs above average with 2 OAA, and placed 27th in defensive runs saved with -31 DRS, with only 20 teams finishing ahead of them in fielding percentage. Key defenders Ke'Bryan Hayes and TJ Friedl, who was designated for assignment, showed individual defensive merit but saw reduced playing time due to offensive limitations. The Reds will look to improve defensively in 2027 with their retained coaching staff and players like Elly De La Cruz, though offensive production will remain critical for earning regular playing time.

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