In Spring Training in 2011, he led the major leagues in RBIs, with 23. 2011 would be a breakout season for Gordon, as his success during Spring Training carried over into the regular season. He and would string together a 19-game hitting streak during much of the month of April and hit more doubles than any player for the Royals had since 2007; his 45 doubles was tied for sixth in the major leagues. Gordon was selected as an American League finalist for the 2011 All-Star Final Vote, but Paul Konerko was elected. Gordon played in over 150 games in the season, which was the most games he had played in at the major league level since his rookie year. Gordon set career highs in batting average (.303), runs scored (101), stolen bases (17), and home runs (23). Defensively, he led all major league outfielders in assists, with 20 and won his first American League Gold Glove Award. Gordon's 20 outfield assists also set a Royals franchise record.