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Dillon Dingler becomes fourth Tigers catcher to win back-to-back AL Gold Glove awards

Detroit Tigers catcher Dillon Dingler has etched his name into franchise history by winning back-to-back American League Gold Glove Awards, becoming only the fourth Tigers catcher to achieve the feat. Joining legends like Iván Rodríguez, Lance Parrish, and Bill Freehan, Dingler’s defensive excellence was underscored by standout metrics: a +17 Fielding Run Value, +15 Defensive Runs Saved, and a +9 in Framing Runs.

Though his offensive production tapered late in the season—dropping from a 136 wRC+ mid-year to a 107 final mark—he still delivered 27 home runs and finished as the eighth-most valuable position player in the AL with 5 fWAR, cementing his two-way impact behind the plate before a late-season offensive slump dimmed his MVP hopes.

The Tigers also celebrated defensive milestones beyond the majors, as Triple-A prospect Max Anderson claimed a Minor League Gold Glove at second base, marking the first such honor for Detroit since Jace Jung in 2023. While Anderson remains below average by MLB standards, his improved defensive trajectory could accelerate his path to a regular role next season, especially with Gleyber Torres’ future in doubt after another injury-plagued campaign.

Utilityman Zach McKinstry, meanwhile, narrowly missed a Gold Glove nod among AL utility players, falling to Texas Rangers outfielder Ezequiel Duran in the final vote.

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