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... as a plus hitter, playing premium defense, at a premium position, is making quite a contribution right now. No doubts there.
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Ichiro is creating 7.8 RC/27, plus legs, compared to Gutierrez' 5.6 RC/27 in fewer AB's.
The positional adjustments at fangraphs are theoretical, as is the number of runs they figure Gutierrez to be cutting off w/r/t Ichiro.
It isn't often that I'll take a 5.5 RC center fielder over an 8.0-8.5 RC right fielder who is also the best corner OF defender in baseball. But the debate is feasible.
Taking a 5.5 center fielder over an 8.0-8.5 corner OF who wins the gold glove is a philosophical choice, but it won't be my choice.