Despite a fierce season, it seems the 'Golden Dragons' failed to clinch any Gold Gloves this year. The Gold Glove is an annual award given to the best fielders in baseball; unfortunately, no player from the Dragons baseball team was selected this year. This surprising outcome follows a generally strong season for the team which has been known for its rigorous defense.
Baseball is considered a national sport in Japan and is followed passionately. The Gold Glove is a prestigious award much like in the American Major Leagues, and it reflects both individual skill and the overall performance of a team. Having no player winning the award this year may disappoint the passionate Dragons’ fanbase as it reflects a perceived weaker defensive season for their favorite team.
Much like in the U.S., baseball is a major sport in Japan. Awards like the Gold Glove holds same level of prestige. Therefore, a team not having a Gold Glove winner is comparable to a major U.S. team like the New York Yankees or Boston Red Sox having a year without such honors.