Kansas City Royals outfielder Alex Gordon joins a select group as he was awarded a Rawlings Gold Glove on Tuesday evening for his efforts in the field during the 2011 season. The 27-year old lead the major leagues with 20 outfield assists, His range factor also was tops among all left fielders (National League Gold Glove winner Gerardo Parra was second).
In addition to a stellar defensive season, Gordon also put up his best offensive season a major leaguer, hitting .303/.376/.502 with 23 home runs and 87 RBI, batting mostly from the leadoff spot. He also stole 17 bases in 25 attempts.
In winning the Gold Glove, Gordon becomes to the first Royals player since Mark Grudzielanek won in 2006. Jeff Francoeur was also nominated for a Gold Glove in right field, but the award went to Nick Markasis of the Baltimore Orioles. Overall, nine different players have no won a Gold Glove while wearing a Kansas City uniform -
2011 - Alex Gordon
2006 - Mark Grudzielanek
2000 - Jermaine Dye
1989 - Bob Boone
1989 - Bret Saberhagen
1987 - Frank White (also won is 1977, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 86)
1985 - George Brett
1980 - Willie Wilson
1974 - Amos Otis (also won in 1971 and 73)