Rays' Kiermaier disappointed by GG snub: 'I believe they got it wrong'

Tampa Bay Rays center fielder Kevin Kiermaier is the latest player to voice his displeasure at not being named a finalist Thursday for the annual Gold Glove awards.

"If it's solely based on computers and numbers, I don't know what numbers that computer was looking at," Kiermaier said, according to Jayson Stark of The Athletic. "But I believe they got it wrong."

Byron Buxton, Ramon Laureano, and Luis Robert were the three American League finalists at center field. Kiermaier's 10 defensive runs saved trailed only Buxton (11), and his 7.7 UZR was the best in the majors among center fielders.

Rays manager Kevin Cash backed the veteran outfielder and shared his disappointment.

"I get to see KK play every night," Cash said. "And as far as I'm concerned, he's the best defensive player on whatever field he's on."

Kiermaier, a three-time Gold Glove winner, joins fellow center fielder Jackie Bradley Jr. and St. Louis Cardinals catcher Yadier Molina as players who have expressed frustration about being snubbed.

Additionally, Kiermaier lobbied for a "utility" Gold Glove category in order to recognize those who play multiple positions, according to Juan Toribio of MLB.com. The 30-year-old said teammate Joey Wendle would be in that conversation after he logged innings at third base, second base, and shortstop in 2020.

Kiermaier will look to put his defensive prowess on display Friday as the Rays continue their pursuit of World Series glory in Game 3 against the Dodgers.