Royals Time Machine: All-Time Defensive Team

Apr 26, 2016; Anaheim, CA, USA; Kansas City Royals left fielder Alex Gordon (4) catches a fly ball by Los Angeles Angels designated hitter Albert Pujols (not pictured) in the second inning during a MLB game at Angel Stadium of Anaheim. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 26, 2016; Anaheim, CA, USA; Kansas City Royals left fielder Alex Gordon (4) catches a fly ball by Los Angeles Angels designated hitter Albert Pujols (not pictured) in the second inning during a MLB game at Angel Stadium of Anaheim. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 26, 2016; Anaheim, CA, USA;Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 26, 2016; Anaheim, CA, USA;Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

The Royals are now in their 48th season since the franchise was founded in 1969. Here is my pick for all-time best defense lineup at all nine positions.

The Kansas City Royals teams that won the last two American League pennants are known for their defensive prowess. Both teams possessed three gold glove winners, and their ability to snag balls that appeared destined to land for key hits has demoralized opponents and thrilled fans.

The following list are the guys I’d pick if I could jump into the Hot Tub Time Machine and assemble a KC Royals team from players who have fielded their position better than anyone else in Royals history.

Note: while I will lean on modern defensive metrics and defensive awards in this analysis, I will also consider my own personal eye test as well as considering how the particular strengths of each player would work in combination with other members of the team.

Next: CATCHER