[OmahaBaseball]

Great Gloves Shine Across the Florida State League

Good defense can be the difference between raising a championship banner and settling for second place. The Florida State League honored its finest fielders today, unveiling the winners of the 2024 Great Glove Awards—recognizing the top defender at each position across the circuit. These nine defenders stand apart as the league’s premier run-stoppers—players whose gloves proved just as valuable as any bat in shaping the summer.

Lakeland led the way with two honorees, including right-hander Garrett Burhenn (22 TC / 1.000%), whose quick reactions and controlled presence on the mound earned him the league’s top defensive award for pitchers. His teammate, shortstop Peyton Graham (315 TC / .987%), took home the honor at one of the sport’s most demanding positions, flashing elite range and sure-handed reliability for the Flying Tigers all season.

Behind the plate, Justin Guerrero (893 TC / .999%) of the Palm Beach Cardinals secured catcher honors thanks to his polished receiving, strong arm, and ability to control the running game. In the infield corners, Bradenton’s Charles McAdoo (865 TC / .995%) claimed the award at first base, while Keoni Cavaco (190 TC / .979%) of Fort Myers earned recognition at third for his quick-twitch reactions and standout glove work.

Clearwater also produced two winners: second baseman Marco Soto (336 TC / .994%), whose smooth footwork and steady presence anchored the Threshers’ middle infield, and center fielder Yhoswar Garcia (294 TC / 1.000%), whose range and jumps patrolled the biggest defensive real estate on the diamond.

Fort Myers celebrated two outfield honorees of its own. Byron Chourio (136 TC / 1.000%) captured the award in left field, consistently turning potential extra-base hits into loud outs, while Tampa’s Mauro Bonifacio (107 TC / .999%) took the honor in right for his strong arm and precise reads.