Was Watching: Kalkman: Historical Yankee Fielding

Is Sky Pushin’ Too Hard for the Yankees defense? Roger See Carmel sez read on!

With the re-re-revival of the Derek Jeter fielding debate and the recent post [here] about historical Yankee fielding, I wanted to take a look at what the numbers have to say. I realize the numbers are exactly what many Derek Jeter supporters are railing against, but let’s consider this a tour of Yankee history and a jumping off platform for more discussion.

...Let’s take a look at the positive end of the spectrum first with the best fielding season, 1976. The bicentennial team was 94 runs better than average, which lopped more than half a run off each pitcher’s ERA. Graig Nettles (3B) led the way with +26 runs, but every other starter except Fred Stanley was at least +8 runs at their position: Willie Randolph (2B), Chris Chambliss (1B), Mickey Rivers, (CF), Roy White (LF), and Oscar Gamble (RF). Even Jim Mason was +7 runs in part time duty.

1960 wasn’t a bad year, either, clocking in at +84 runs. That team was more top-heavy in the field, with four players at least +14 runs relative to their position: Tony Kubek (SS), Clete Boyer (3B), Roger Maris (RF), and Gil McDougald (2B/3B). Moose Skowron also had his best fielding season over at first base.

The only very good fielding season since 1978 came in the magical year of 1998, at +44 runs. Scott Brosius (3B) was all that his legend claims him to be, saving 23 runs compared to average. Paul O’Neill (RF) was excellent, Chad Curtis and Bernie Williams both cracked double digits, and Derek Jeter managed a positive number. On the negative side, Homer Bush (2B), Dale Sveum (UT), and Tim Raines (OF) were all -5 runs.