**Defensive metrics from the completed 2026 regular season shape NL Gold Glove positioning across positions, with advanced stats such as Defensive Runs Saved, Outs Above Average, and Fielding Run Value highlighting standouts.** Managers and coaches cast the majority of votes (supplemented by SABR Defensive Index), favoring repeat candidates like Braves first baseman Matt Olson, who leads NL 1B in several categories, Cardinals shortstop Masyn Winn seeking a second consecutive award, and Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong, who posted elite numbers again. Other races feature close competition at catcher (Gabriel Moreno, Luis Torrens), second base (Brice Turang, JJ Wetherholt), third base (Alex Bregman, Matt Chapman), and outfield spots (Jackson Chourio, Corbin Carroll, Andy Pages). Final stat leaderboards and any late injury impacts on playing time remain the primary variables ahead of November voting and announcements.