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How Do the Cardinals and Reds Compare in Fielding Stats?
Fielding is a crucial aspect of baseball that often goes unnoticed compared to hitting and pitching. However, the ability of a team to field effectively can significantly influence their success on the diamond. In this article, we will delve into the fielding statistics of two storied franchises in Major League Baseball (MLB): the St. Louis Cardinals and the Cincinnati Reds.
. By examining their fielding metrics, we can gain insights into how these teams stack up against each other.
Understanding Fielding Statistics
Before we dive into the comparison, it’s essential to understand the key fielding statistics that are commonly used to evaluate a team’s defensive performance:
- Fielding Percentage (FP): This statistic measures the percentage of plays a fielder successfully makes compared to the total number of chances (putouts + errors).
- Defensive Runs Saved (DRS): This advanced metric quantifies how many runs a player saves or costs their team compared to an average player at the same position.
- Ultimate Zone Rating (UZR): UZR assesses a player’s defensive contributions in terms of runs saved, taking into account the number of plays made and the difficulty of those plays.
Fielding Performance of the St. Louis Cardinals
The St. Louis Cardinals have a rich history of strong defensive play, which has contributed to their success over the years. In recent seasons, their fielding stats have reflected this tradition:
- Fielding Percentage: The Cardinals have consistently maintained a fielding percentage above .980, ranking them among the top teams in the league.
- Defensive Runs Saved: In 2022, the Cardinals recorded a DRS of +30, indicating that their defense saved 30 runs compared to an average team.
- Ultimate Zone Rating: Their UZR was also impressive, with several players, including Gold Glove winners, contributing positively to the overall team rating.
Key players like Paul Goldschmidt and Tommy Edman have been instrumental in the Cardinals’ defensive success. Goldschmidt, known for his exceptional fielding at first base, consistently ranks among the best in the league, while Edman’s versatility allows him to excel at multiple positions.
Fielding Performance of the Cincinnati Reds
The Cincinnati Reds, while historically known for their offensive prowess, have faced challenges in the fielding department in recent years. However, they have made strides to improve their defensive metrics:
- Fielding Percentage: The Reds have hovered around a fielding percentage of .975, which places them in the lower tier of MLB teams.
- Defensive Runs Saved: In 2022, the Reds had a DRS of -20, indicating that their defense cost them 20 runs compared to an average team.
- Ultimate Zone Rating: Their UZR has also been negative, suggesting that their players have struggled to make plays that an average fielder would typically handle.
Despite these challenges, players like Jonathan India and Tyler Stephenson have shown potential in improving the Reds’ defensive capabilities. Their development will be crucial for the team as they aim to enhance their overall fielding performance.
Comparative Analysis
When comparing the fielding stats of the Cardinals and Reds, several key differences emerge:
- Overall Fielding Efficiency: The Cardinals have consistently outperformed the Reds in fielding percentage, DRS, and UZR.
- Player Contributions: The Cardinals boast multiple Gold Glove winners, while the Reds have struggled to find consistent defensive standouts.
- Impact on Team Success: The Cardinals’ superior fielding has contributed to their competitive edge in the National League Central, while the Reds have often found themselves at the bottom of the standings.
Conclusion
In summary, the St. Louis Cardinals and Cincinnati Reds present a stark contrast in fielding statistics. The Cardinals’ commitment to defensive excellence is evident in their high fielding percentage and positive advanced metrics, while the Reds continue to grapple with their defensive shortcomings. As both teams look to the future, improving fielding will be essential for the Reds to compete effectively in the league. For more detailed statistics and analysis, fans can visit [Baseball Reference](https://www.baseball-reference.com/) for comprehensive data on player and team performances.
