Dodgers Rookie Josue De Paula Eyes Gold Glove After Defensive Transformation

In the visiting coach’s room at Great American Ball Park, third base and outfield coach Dino Ebel presented a pivotal moment for Dodgers rookie Josue De Paula. With defensive metrics on three elite outfielders — including Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong, the National League MVP favorite, and Dodgers’ own Andy Pages — Ebel’s analysis underscored areas where De Paula could grow. What followed was a catalyst for change, blending motivation with technical refinement as the 20-year-old eyes a permanent spot in the majors.

Comparing Paths: From Metrics to Mentorship

De Paula’s journey has been framed by comparisons. When Ebel broke down his metrics — first step, arm strength, range — against Pages and Crow-Armstrong, the contrast was stark. “There’s a lot of colors in the game… when you have red, it’s not good, and when you have green, it’s good,” Ebel explained. While Pages and Crow-Armstrong shone green, De Paula’s metrics showed a mix, prompting self-reflection.

“Just comparing [Pages’] journey, too, with mine — and that it’s possible,” De Paula said. “I have all the tools under my belt to be able to do so. It’s more about just being focused throughout the whole thing…” His resolve was further stoked by special assistant Jason Heyward, a five-time Gold Glove outfielder who began mentoring him this season. Heyward, who once faced similar scrutiny as a prospect, praised De Paula’s openness to feedback: “He makes it so easy to have something to make relatable to this because I’ve seen his work in the cage…”

Bat First, Defense Next: The Call-Up Story

De Paula’s offensive explosion — highlighted by a three-run homer as his first major-league hit — earned him a call-up while Shohei Ohtani was placed on the injured list. Manager Dave Roberts framed his promotion as a “trial run,” signaling that offensive impact alone wouldn’t seal his future. “This is more of a trial run,” Roberts noted, emphasizing that defensive consistency will determine his long-term viability.

“Our goal is to become, one day, a Gold Glover,” Ebel said of De Paula. “And I think he’s young enough to do it…” The stakes are high, but so is the opportunity. Dodgers coaches, including Blake Snell and Roberts himself, have dedicated extra time to shagging drills and situational practice, underscoring the organization’s investment in his growth.

Mindset Overhaul: Staying Engaged in the Outfield

Heyward emphasized routine and focus, two areas De Paula admitted were challenging. “Hitting, you are always unfocused on the next pitch… but in the outfield, you could go three days without a fly ball,” De Paula reflected. “It’s just more about tips of engagement and that intensity of focus.” Heyward’s influence has been pivotal, encouraging De Paula to apply the same meticulous approach to defense that defines his offensive preparation.

The Gold Glove Dream: Fueling the Fire

For De Paula, criticism has been motivation. “I’ve gotten a lot of hate on my defense, and I just love to prove people wrong,” he said. His mantra — “Just give me some time” — reflects a blend of humility and determination. Recent strides, including his daily early-morning routines and game-situation drills, mirror his ascent in Tulsa, where he played through the 2024 season.

Roberts recently challenged De Paula directly: “I wanted to be up close to watch him get off on the baseball, watch his reads… he was great.” These interactions, coupled with his Gold Glove ambitions, paint a portrait of a player whose drive matches his talent. “That’s one thing about me, when my mind is set on something, I feel like it’s no going back,” De Paula said.

Looking Ahead: Defense as Destiny

As the Dodgers’ playoff push intensifies, De Paula’s defensive trajectory could define more than his roster spot. His mentorship under Heyward, support from Ebel and Roberts, and relentless work ethic suggest a player primed for growth. Whether he fulfills his Gold Glove aspirations remains uncertain, but his evolution — from raw prospect to polished outfielder — offers a compelling narrative for Dodgers fans.

“It’s a blessing to have somebody like that in your corner, especially rooting for you…” De Paula said of Heyward. For now, the metrics, mentorship, and motivation are aligning — one routine drill, one shagging session, one game at a time.

Sports, Dodgers, MLB, Josue De Paula, Gold Gloves, Defense, Offense, Coaching, People