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MLB Preview: Ranking the Top Third Basemen in MLB

By Nick Fustor

Jun 19, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays third baseman Josh Donaldson (20) chases a wild throw as Baltimore Orioles third baseman Manny Machado (13) is safe at third in the eighth inning at Rogers Centre. Toronto defeated Baltimore 5-4. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 19, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays third baseman Josh Donaldson (20) chases a wild throw as Baltimore Orioles third baseman Manny Machado (13) is safe at third in the eighth inning at Rogers Centre. Toronto defeated Baltimore 5-4. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports /

Third base has traditionally been a position of dominant hitters with a few sluggers taking headlines. Now, many of of the modern third basemen are tremendous athletes, as well. There’s plenty of talent at the hot corner, as seemingly every team has one or two players ready to contribute.

Colorado Rockies star Nolan Arenado ascended to greatness following the trade of Troy Tulowitzki, while Josh Donaldson took home his first MVP trophy in what was a dominant year.  Young stars like Manny Machado and Kris Bryant are already among the game’s best, and are poised to keep improving.

But third base is more than just young talent. The old guard, headlined by Adrian Beltre, is still preforming at a high level, and showing that the youth do not always rule the day. Then there are those who quietly go about their business in relative obscurity, yet are still among the best the game has to offer.

But who rank among the best at the position heading into the 2016 season? Here’s our rankings of the top third basemen in MLB approaching Opening Day.

Next: The honorable mentions

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