Based on the numbers, this result is unsurprising. The Brewers had a combined total of 64 Defensive Runs, most of which came from second base (23), center field (18), and right field (25). They also had well-rounded contributions across the board, with just shortstop and left field lagging behind the league average. The only real competition in the National League was the Dodgers, who had two more DRS than Milwaukee. It can be assumed that the Brewers ultimately took the top spot since they had more positions of excellence. At the same time, the Dodgers were more average, having fewer positions below league average but peaking at 14 DRS from right field. The next closest NL team was the Cubs with 37 DRS, a far cry from the top of the standings.
Another figure illustrating the importance of these fielding contributions for the Brewers is the big difference between their ERA and FIP. With a team ERA of 3.65 and a team FIP of 4.20, the Brewers had the largest negative difference between the two numbers of any team in 2024. While this may not have been the result of solid defense, it contributed to the final result and allowed the pitching staff to excel beyond their intrinsic numbers.
On an individual level, Brice Turang was also named the National League’s Platinum Glove award winner. He led all infielders in DRS at 22 all NL players with 2.8 dWAR. It caps off what has been a great sophomore campaign for the middle infielder. Because he isn’t eligible for arbitration until 2026, he’ll continue to be a total bargain for the organization. Other players who had strong DRS figures this year were Joey Ortiz at third base (8), Blake Perkins (8) in center field, Sal Frelick in right field (16), and Jackson Chourio in multiple outfield positions (12). Another interesting nugget was Garrett Mitchell’s total of six DRS in center field, impressive considering he played just over 300 innings at the position, one-third of the time spent by other top defenders.
With an excess of defensive talent, is this an area of depth from which the Brewers can leverage trade assets? Perhaps, but depending on how much emphasis the front office places on maintaining their defensive prowess, they may keep their best pieces around for the long haul.
