On October 15, 2024, MLB announced the finalists for the 2024 Gold Glove Awards, showcasing exceptional defensive talent across the league. Notable nominees include Bryce Harper of the Philadelphia Phillies and Dansby Swanson of the Chicago Cubs.

Finalists were selected based on votes from MLB managers and coaches, alongside the Society for American Baseball Research's Defensive Index. The winners will be revealed on November 3, 2024.

The Kansas City Royals are on the brink of advancing to the American League Division Series for the first time since 2015 after a narrow 1-0 victory against the Baltimore Orioles in the Wild Card Series opener.

As they eye a potential World Series run, the Royals face offseason challenges with several players becoming free agents, including Hunter Renfroe and Adam Frazier. They may consider trades to bolster their roster, with St. Louis Cardinals' Willson Contreras being a potential target.

Contreras, who has had a strong offensive season despite injuries, could bring valuable experience to the young Royals team. However, Kansas City would need to craft a significant trade package to acquire him from their I-70 rivals.

The Washington Nationals are struggling with a three-game losing streak, having been outscored 9-0 in their last three games. As they face the Kansas City Royals, they are looking to veteran pitcher Patrick Corbin to help turn things around.

Corbin, with a record of 6-13 and a 5.58 ERA, has had a tough September. In contrast, Royals pitcher Michael Wacha has been in excellent form, aiming to secure a win for his team and maintain their strong position in the Wild Card race.

The San Francisco Giants are looking to build momentum after a series-opening win against the Kansas City Royals, entering the game with a record of 75-79, four games below .500.

Rookie pitcher Landen Roupp makes his third start, facing off against Brady Singer of the Royals. Roupp aims to continue his solid form following a no-decision in his last outing, while Singer seeks to overcome recent struggles on the mound.

Heliot Ramos stands out for the Giants, having had a commendable game in the previous matchup, while both teams look to improve their batting performance as they gear up for the matchup at Kauffman Stadium.

In Week 26 of the 2024 MLB season, notable catchers for fantasy baseball pickups include Travis d'Arnaud, Freddy Fermin, and Elias Diaz. Each of these players is performing well and available in under 40% of Yahoo! leagues, making them strategic additions for fantasy managers.

Travis d'Arnaud, recently returning from paternity leave, is an integral part of the Atlanta Braves, boasting solid numbers despite a recent slump. Freddy Fermin of the Kansas City Royals has been impressive as well, looking to bolster the team's playoff aspirations.

Meanwhile, Elias Diaz, after joining the San Diego Padres, has begun to make an impact, with promising matchups ahead. All three players offer potential for fantasy owners looking to enhance their rosters in the closing weeks of the season.