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MMN Defensive Player of the Year: Tomas Nido

By John Sasso

September 20, 2016 No comments

Photo Credit: Ed Delany

Photo Credit: Ed Delany

Measuring a player’s defensive value is never an easy thing. Metrics are flawed, errors are a poor way to exclusively determine a player’s ability, and things are subject to an official scorers opinion. Doing so for minor league players is even more difficult.

With that said, I have the privilege to announce our MMN Defensive Player of the Year is Tomas Nido.  While much has been deservedly made of his offensive breakthrough performance, his step forward defensively is the most promising aspect of his development.

Nido threw out 50 of 119 would be basestealers on the year, good for a 42% rate. Outstanding no matter what level a player is at. He also totaled 86 assists from behind the plate. Looking at the success of the pitchers, his work with them has been great. Unfortunately framing stats and the advanced metrics are not readily available for minor league catchers at this time. (Gauntlet thrown Statcorner)

In a recent interview with MMN, Nido discussed the priority that is placed on defense, and his plan to continue to work at it. I got to see him last season and came away impressed with his pre-game work. First with the starter then moving to the bullpen and game planned with the relievers.  At the time, I made comments that he had a legit chance at being a backup catcher, (not a bad outcome by any means). With his breakout season that expectation has probably become the floor. 

Our runner-up for Defensive Player of the Year, is his teammate, Luis Guillorme. Guillorme, smooth in everything he does in the field, started the season at second base to accommodate Amed Rosario. In August he was voted best defensive second baseman in the Florida State League by Baseball America. He was also named Outstanding Defender in the recent European Championship. 

His return to shortstop was seamless, helping the St. Lucie team reach the playoffs. He finished the season with 78 double plays. Totaling 18 errors at second base and shortstop combined, while logging over 450 innings at each position.

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