The 2026 season didn't start well for Minnesota Twins infielder Brooks Lee. He hit just .194/.242/.194 through the first 11 games of the season. Additionally, he had -9 Defensive Runs Saved and -6 Outs Above Average over 400 innings at shortstop.
When the Twins optioned Royce Lewis to Triple-A St. Paul in May, Minnesota converted Lee to a full-time third baseman. Lewis moved to the other side of the infield, splitting time between first and second base after being called back up to the majors.
While Lee likely would've preferred to stay at shortstop, he has to be happy to be a third baseman now. In 939 2/3 innings at third base this year, Lee posted a remarkable +8 DRS and +6 OAA. Even though he didn't become a full-time third baseman until May, Lee is a Gold Glove Award finalist.
The Gold Glove Award is issued to a player at every position in each league. The two other AL third basemen nominated for the award are Caleb Durbin of the Boston Red Sox and Nick Loftin of the Kansas City Royals.
To decide the winners, 30 MLB managers and up to six coaches from each team vote from a group of players in their league, excluding players from their own club. Those votes comprise 75% of the total, while the SABR Defensive Index accounts for the other 25%.
In addition to turning things around defensively, Lee's offense improved massively after his rough start to the year. The third baseman ended the season with a solid .253/.300/.428 (101 wRC+) slash line. He notably hit 24 home runs, a professional career-high, and drove in 83 runs. He accumulated 2.8 fWAR this year.
Will Twins 3B Brooks Lee win the Gold Glove Award?
Lee most likely won't win the Gold Glove Award, as Durbin posted +13 DRS and +7 OAA. Lee probably has the edge over Loftin, who recorded +6 DRS and +6 OAA at third base this year.
Even though Durbin is likely the favorite, Lee still could win the award. Coaches and managers don't typically make their voting decisions based solely on DRS and OAA.
No matter what, the fact that Lee is a finalist for the award further vindicates the Twins' decision to move him to third base. Earlier in the year, many were wondering whether Lee had what it takes to be an everyday big-leaguer. Now, the Twins should feel comfortable with Lee as their starting third baseman for years to come.
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