With Opening Day fast approaching, and the promise of the new season, let us take start to look back at the 100 best players in MLB history, as we count down the greats over the next few weeks.
Over the history of what can truly be called major league baseball, there have been a total of 18,663 players to have been in what could be called a major league. Countless others have plied their trade either in the minors, foreign leagues or as semi-pro players, either hoping for a chance in the majors that never came, or simply playing for the love of the game and the ability to be out on the diamond.
Of those 18,663 players, there have been varying degrees of success. Some appeared only once, while others had careers that were eminently forgettable. There were players who showed signs of brilliance, only to have their careers stalled by injuries or an inability to adjust at the major league level. Players who were solid major legauers, perennial All-Stars and even those whose greatness was enough to be worthy of enshrinement in Cooperstown.
Of those, only a very select few can be considered as the greatest that have ever set foot on the diamond in the majors. From that list, of players who either made the Hall of Fame or those who were on the cusp, it is difficult to determine who the 100 best players in MLB history would be. Yet, that is where we are.
Today, let us begin to look back at the 100 Greatest Players in MLB History, as we begin our countdown of the true greats of the game. As with any list, this is fairly subjective, and subject to debate. Let us know if there is anyone you disagree with in the first ten, and enjoy as we begin our weekly countdown.
Next: A personal favorite