Gibson touts consistent glovework as team's strength

PHOENIX -- D-backs manager Kirk Gibson can't put a number on it, but he's sure his club's stellar defense so far this season has translated into at least a handful of victories.

"I know it's helped for sure, but I can't measure it," Gibson said. "It's probably the strength of our team, the most consistent part."

Consistent indeed. Even though the D-backs committed a pair of errors in Wednesday's 5-3 win over the Braves, they still are tied for first in the Major Leagues in fielding percentage, at .992, with just 12 miscues in 41 games.

"We have an error here and there, but beyond the plays, we understand where to throw the ball, and that helps us stay out of big innings," Gibson said. "We've made some great plays when we've we needed them."