The outfield defense was much improved in 2024 for the Boston Red Sox and was recognized Tuesday as Rawlings announced its finalists for the Gold Glove awards.

Jarren Duran, a first-time finalist in center, was named along with Houston’s Jake Meyers and Toronto’s Daulton Varsho. Boston rookie Wilyer Abreu was named a finalist in right field along with Juan Soto of the Yankees  and Jo Adell of the Los Angeles Angels.

The winners will be announced on Nov. 3. The awards are voted on by managers and coaches, who are not allowed to vote for their own players.

It was thought that rookie Ceddanne Rafaela might have a chance as a utility player, given to players who contribute at multiple positions. Rafaela split time between shortstop and center field, but lost out to Houston’s Mauricio Dubon, Minnesota’s Willi Castro and Seattle’s Dylan Moore.

The Red Sox were shut out in the infield, on the mound and behind the plate.

PHILLIES: Philadelphia signed Manager Rob Thomson to a one-year contract extension through the 2026 season after he led the team to three straight trips to the playoffs.

The 61-year-old Thomson guided the Phillies to the 2022 World Series and the 2023 National League Championship Series and led them this season to their first NL East title since 2011. The Phillies were eliminated in four games by the New York Mets in the National League Division Series.