Pittsburgh Review

Jared Triolo, a player known for his adaptability on the field, has been awarded his first career Gold Glove Award. The Pittsburgh Pirates infielder received the Rawlings Gold Glove Award for National League utilitymen, surpassing competitors Kiké Hernández of the Dodgers and Brendan Donovan of the Cardinals.

Triolo's journey to this accolade began when he was primarily a third baseman. In 2021, he won a Minor League Gold Glove as a testament to his defensive skills. However, the Pirates encouraged him to explore other positions to enhance his versatility. By 2022, Triolo had expanded his repertoire to include shortstop and center field, followed by second and first base.

“Just realizing I was pretty good at playing different positions, I think that was a big confidence [boost] for me,” Triolo shared via Zoom.

Despite starting as the team's everyday second baseman in his first full Major League season, Triolo faced challenges offensively and transitioned into a utility role after losing his position to Nick Gonzales. He later filled in at third base when Ke’Bryan Hayes was injured.

Throughout these changes, Triolo maintained consistent defensive performance across various positions, contributing seven defensive runs saved. His .995 fielding percentage as a second baseman tied for best in the league among National League infielders with at least 300 innings played. As a third baseman, he led with a .985 fielding percentage.

“Originally I think when I learned I was going to play second base, second base was the goal I had,” said Triolo. “I think a utility Gold Glove is all the more special."

Triolo attributes much of his success to support from coaches such as bench coach Don Kelly and infield coach Mendy López.

“I'm a guy who likes to take a lot of ground balls and feel comfortable... DK [bench coach Don Kelly] was out there every single day with me," said Triolo.

With this award, Triolo joins fellow Pirate infielders like Ke’Bryan Hayes and Isiah Kiner-Falefa who have also earned Gold Gloves in recent years. Looking ahead to next season, Triolo remains open about where he might fit within the team’s plans but emphasizes readiness for any role assigned.

“I think my biggest asset right now is playing a bunch of positions... Obviously I'm gonna get my work everywhere," he stated.