Outfield assists usually happen because teams will run on poor defenders a lot more often. Interesting theory but I'd need to see some more evidence, just a quick check and Vladimir Guerrero for example was in the top 4 in his league in assists for basically 10 straight years despite his reputation. Ichiro is similar, top 5 in the league in RF assists for most of the 2000s.
Modern award did not exist until 1931. Previously it was not awarded every season and there was a rule that a player could not win it more than once. He did lead his league in WAR 10 times
The second one bounced off of Bandy's leg. Either way it is lazy technique to try to backhand rather than block. Catching 101 Spiked 95mph fastballs are what they are. It is not easy so no, not catching 101. The fundamental part is that when runners are on base you do not try to backhand pitches, you block them. Maybe the chance of blocking is only 5%, but it is still better than a backhand attempt on a spiked fastball.