Press Release from the Portland Sea Dogs
Portland, Maine – Portland Sea Dogs shortstop Franklin Arias has been named a 2026 Minor League Baseball Rawlings Gold Glove Award recipient, becoming just the second player in franchise history to earn the honor.
Arias joins former Sea Dogs pitcher Matt Kent, who received the award in 2019, as the only players in Portland franchise history to be named Rawlings Gold Glove Award recipients.
Arias, 20, showcased his defensive abilities throughout his time in Portland, appearing in 61 games in the field before his promotion to Triple-A Worcester on July 25. He made 56 starts at shortstop, committing just three errors in 210 total chances for a .986 fielding percentage. In five games at second base, Arias was perfect, converting all 14 chances without an error.
Between the two positions, Arias recorded 72 putouts, 135 assists and turned 29 double plays. His .986 fielding percentage was the highest among Sea Dogs middle infielders during the 2026 season.
Arias’ defensive excellence was part of an outstanding all-around season in Portland. Named the Sea Dogs’ Most Valuable Player, Arias batted .318 with 90 hits, 19 home runs, 52 RBI and a .406 on-base percentage in 75 games. He led Portland in runs (50), hits, home runs, RBI and on-base percentage at the time of his promotion. Twelve of his 19 home runs either tied the game or gave Portland the lead.
Arias also made history with the Sea Dogs’ annual team awards, becoming the first player since the awards began in 2001 to earn multiple honors in a single season. In addition to MVP, he was named the team’s Defensive Player of the Year.
The Rawlings Gold Glove Award adds to an impressive list of accolades for Arias, who was also named Eastern League MVP and the league’s Top MLB Prospect following his standout 2026 campaign.
