Boston Red Sox right fielder won the Gold Glove Award for American Leaguers at his position on Tuesday, edging the White Sox’ Adam Eaton and Astros’ George Springer — the other two candidates for the award.
Eaton, who shifted to right field in 2016 after playing center in 2014 and 2015, led major-league outfielders with 18 assists and ranked second behind Betts with 22 defensive runs saved in 2016. Betts had 32 runs saved.
Eaton had 18 assists, the most by a Sox outfielder since Jim Rivera had 22 and Minnie Minoso 19 in 1955. He was also a finalist in 2014, as a center fielder.
Voting was based on 75 percent voting by AL managers and coaches and 25 percent on defensive metrics.
