Kevin Kiermaier to receive Wilson Defensive Player of the Year Award

Tonight, prior to the game, Rays defensive extraordinaire Kevin Kiermaier will receive the Wilson Defensive Player of the Year Award. The award is given to the player that is determined to be the top defensive player in all of baseball, whether they be in the American or National League. Kiermaier will receive the award during an on field ceremony.

Kevin Kiermaier’s list of defensive awards keep adding up as he already has two Gold Gloves to his name, as well as a Platinum Glove Award, which also goes to the best defensive player in the league.

Over his career, Kiermaier has amassed 82 defensive runs saved, which is incredible considering he missed close to half of last year and didn’t become a full time player until 2015. Kiermaier has incredible instincts in the outfield, and he continues to somehow get even better out in the field.

When a pitch is hit anywhere near Kiermaier’s general vicinity, there is no doubt in anyone’s mind that the ball will wind up anywhere but in Kiermaier’s glove.

The Rays will fortunately be the beneficiary of Kevin Kieramier’s defensive prowls possibly through the 2023 season thanks to the contract extension he signed towards the end of spring training.