MLB History: Top Fifty Players in Baseball History
There have been quite a few great players in the history of baseball. Today, we look at the fifty best players ever to step on an MLB diamond.
To be a professional athlete, one has to be in the top 0.001% of the population in that sport. Even then, the chances of making the Major Leagues are almost astronomical. Draft position does not matter in this case, as quite a few first round selections have not made their way to the MLB, while those taken in the latter portions of the draft have gone on to be productive players, or even stars.
Of the 18,744 players to set foot on a Major League Baseball diamond, we are going to take a look at the fifty greatest. These players, even if their careers ended over a century ago, still have their accomplishments discussed with reverence, with their names consistently appearing in the record books. They are truly the greatest of the greats.
Previously, we had looked back over those players who could be considered as the 51st through 100th greatest players in MLB history. Now, let us go through those true legends of the game, and count down the fifty greatest players ever in the Major Leagues.
Next: The Duke of Flatbush - or Brooklyn
50. Duke Snider
During the early part of the 1950’s, New York was home to three of the greatest center fielders in MLB history, with Duke Snider, Willie Mays and Mickey Mantle patrolling the outfield. While Mays and Mantle easily come to mind amongst the greatest outfielders in history, Snider tends to be the forgotten part of that trio.
That is truly unfortunate, as Snider deserves to be in the conversation with the greats in MLB history. One of the premier power hitters of his day, Snider hit forty or more home runs five times, including a league leading 43 in 1956. He was an eight time All-Star, and finished in the top ten in the MVP ballot six times.
In his stellar career, Snider produced a .295/.380/.540 batting line with 407 home runs. As the best hitter in those Dodger lineups, he frequently ranked among the league leaders in walks, as the opposition pitched around him, not wanting Snider to defeat them with his bat. Even though the information from the first eight years of his career is missing, Snider is still among the leaders in intentional walks in his career. Even then, he ranked tenth all time in home runs when he retired.
Yet, Snider was more than just a stellar hitter. He was one of the best defensive center fielders of his time, although he was once again overshadowed by Mays. However, he typically ranked in the top five in putouts and assists in his prime, and is currently 36th in putouts and 37th in assists for a center fielder in MLB history.
One of the more overlooked players in baseball history, Duke Snider was one of the true greats of the game. Perhaps if he played in a different city, or at a different time, he would have received the appreciation he deserved.
Next: A black mark stains his legacy
49. Shoeless Joe Jackson
These days, Shoeless Joe Jackson is remembered for his questionable role in the Chicago White Sox throwing the 1919 World Series and how he is banned from baseball despite his adamant claims of innocence. Yet, Jackson was one of the best of his era, a player who rivalled the great Ty Cobb as the best hitter in the American League.
A player with excellent speed and a great batting eye, Jackson had an amazing ability to make contact. He led the league in hits twice and triples three times, yet in his best season in the Majors, only led the AL in on base percentage. That year, he posted a .408/.468/.590 batting line with 45 doubles and 19 triples while stealing 41 bases. It was truly a great performance.
In his career, cut short due to his ban from the game, Jackson posted a .356/.423/.517 batting line with 307 doubles and 168 triples. He ranks third all time in batting average and 17th in on base percentage. Those 168 triples are still 26th in MLB history, leading one to wonder where he would have ranked had his career come to its natural end.
Alas, despite being found innocent in court, Judge Kenesaw Mountain Landis suspended Jackson and seven other members of the White Sox for life. An illiterate, it is even doubtful that Jackson would have understood any paper that he would have signed for a payout to throw the World Series, and he did produce a .375/.394/.563 batting line with four extra base hits during the postseason in question. However, he is still on the outside looking in.
Shoeless Joe Jackson was a truly great hitter, but his accomplishments on the diamond cannot be discussed without his disputed involvement in throwing the 1919 World Series. At this point, the truth of what really happened may never be known.
Next: The Japanese sensation
48. Ichiro Suzuki
Speaking of having to wonder what might have been, we have the greatest player in MLB history ever to come over from Japan in Ichiro Suzuki.
Despite spending his first nine seasons in the Japanese League, and coming over to the Majors at age 27, Ichiro has put together quite the incredible career. In his rookie season, Ichiro won virtually every award possible, taking home the Rookie of the Year, MVP, Gold Glove and Silver Slugger awards. He made the All-Star team in each of his first ten seasons, bringing home the Gold Glove each time.
His career numbers just lead one to wonder what would have happened if he had started his career in the States. He has already carved his name in the record books, breaking George Sisler’s single season hit total, and is rapidly closing in on 3000 Major League hits. In fact, depending on where one stands on the issue, Ichiro is closing in on Pete Rose as the all time hit king if his Japanese career is considered.
Defensively, Ichiro was a truly gifted outfielder in his prime. Possessing a true cannon and a the defensive ability of a center fielder in right, Ichiro ranks fifth all time with 120 runs saved in right, and is in the top 50 in assists and range factor. He is third all time in fielding percentage in right, showing the type of player he was during the early part of his career.
If he has spent his entire career in the States, Ichiro would likely be considered one of the top twenty players, at worst, in MLB history. As it stands, he is still one of the best players to ever set foot on the diamond, and is easily the best Japanese player to come over to the States.
Next: Larry Wayne, but better known by his nickname
47. Chipper Jones
During the 1990’s and early part of the 2000’s, the Atlanta Braves were one of the premier teams in baseball. Chipper Jones was the face of those teams, the home grown star who remained in Atlanta his entire career.
A star from the moment he arrived as a starter in the majors, Jones was a cornerstone of the Braves lineup almost immediately. He hit twenty or more home runs in each of his first fourteen seasons, going over thirty six different times. Jones won a batting title at age 36, hitting .364, and in his MVP season in 1999, he posted a .319/.441/.633 batting line with 45 home runs and 25 stolen bases.
An eight time All-Star, Jones hit at a .303/.401/.529 rate with 468 home runs. Perhaps the greatest offensive third baseman in MLB history, Jones ranks 33rd in home runs and RBI, driving in 1,623 runs in his career. Jones also ranks 29th with 549 doubles and his excellent batting eye led to 1,512 walks, the 16th most in history.
Jones was also a somewhat underrated defensive player. While he didn’t have great range, he made the plays that he could get to, and still managed to end up in the top forty all time in assists and double plays at third. He also appeared in left in the middle of his career, where he strong arm put him among the leaders in assists during both his years there.
When one thinks of the heyday of the Atlanta Braves, one typically thinks of their strong pitching staff. However, Chipper Jones was the lynchpin of the Atlanta offense, and was one of the best third basemen in baseball history.
Next: The home runs didn't matter
46. Fergie Jenkins
Fergie Jenkins gave up 484 home runs in his career, the third most in baseball history. However, he had impeccable control, and with his ability to strike out the opposition, those home runs rarely mattered.
A rather underrated pitcher, Jenkins only made three All-Star teams despite being one of the best pitchers in the game from the middle of the 1960’s into the mid 1970’s. A seven time twenty game winner, and a workhorse who was routinely among the league leaders in innings pitched and complete games, Jenkins finished in the top three in the Cy Young vote four different times, winning the award in 1971, when he was 24-13 with a 2.77 ERA and a 1.049 WHiP, striking out 263 batters.
In his career, Jenkins posted a deceptive 284-226 record with a 3.34 ERA and a 1.142 WHiP, striking out 3,192 batters against only 997 walks in 4500.2 innings. He ranks 29th in wins and 12th in strikeouts, one of 16 pitchers to notch 3000 strikeouts in MLB history. Even though he pitched in a more modern era, Jenkins is 27th all time in innings pitched, showing his remarkable durability.
Jenkins was also somewhat victimized by circumstances beyond his control. In his 19 year career, he never appeared in the postseason, as the Cubs and Rangers teams of that time were generally out of contention early on. Yet, Jenkins kept plugging away, putting up stellar numbers on teams that just could not provide him that chance to shine in the playoffs.
One of the greatest pitchers in his time, one has to wonder what Fergie Jenkins overall numbers would have looked like had he been on stronger teams. Alas, Jenkins overall numbers suffered because of the teams he toiled on.
Next: One of the best third basemen in the game
45. Eddie Mathews
The now Atlanta Braves played in Boston and Milwaukee before ending up at their current home. Eddie Mathews was the only player to be a part of the Braves in all three cities.
That was not all that Mathews accomplished. While he spent his career playing in the shadow of Hank Aaron, he also redefined the third base position into what it is expected to be today. A true slugger, Mathews hit over thirty home runs in ten different seasons, turning the hot corner into a truly offensive position.
A nine time All-Star, and a two time runner up in the MVP voting, Mathews produced a career .271/.376/.509 batting line with 512 home runs, a total that is 22nd in MLB history. He possessed a great batting eye, drawing 1,444 walks, the 24th most ever. With his 1,509 runs and 1,453 RBI, Mathews was a key part to the Braves offense, and the perfect protection for Aaron in the lineup.
While he was not considered to be one of the better defensive third basemen, Mathews was better than one may have thought. He ranks in the top ten all time in putouts, assists and double plays, while his 40 runs saved at third ranks 38th in baseball history. He may be remembered for his bat, but Mathews was a solid defensive player as well.
One of the better players in the 1950’s and 1960’s, Mathews was overshadowed by his record breaking teammate. However, that ignores how great of a career he had in his own right, and his place in the history of the game.
Next: A star at two positions
44. Robin Yount
A lifelong member of the Milwaukee Brewers, Robin Yount was a true great that accomplished the feat of winning an MVP award at two different positions, dividing his career between short and center.
At a time when shortstops were more of a glove first player who would slap base hits and steal bases, Yount was an offensive force. Only 18 when he reached the Majors, he grew into his power, hitting over thirty doubles eight times and over twenty home runs four times. He possessed solid speed, stealing ten or more bases in all but four of his twenty seasons with the Brewers, and led the league in triples twice.
While he made only three All-Star Games, Yount was a solid offensive player who produced a .285/.342/.430 batting line with 583 doubles, 251 homers and 1,406 RBI. He ranks 18th all time with 3,142 hits and 19th in doubles, and ranks in the top fifty all time in singles, total bases, runs scored and extra base hits.
Although he only won one Gold Glove, Yount was a stellar defensive player at both short and center. He ranks among the leaders in range factor at both positions, and was 69th with 25 runs saved at short. Had he remained at that position for the entirety of his career, he may well have been considered one of the better defensive players at his position to play the game.
Overlooked due to the team he played for, Robin Yount was easily the best player in Milwaukee Brewers history. He was also one of the best players to set foot on the diamond.
Next: A career cut short
43. Roy Campanella
One of the best players to come out of the Negro Leagues, and one of the first black players signed by Branch Rickey, Roy Campanella was a true star whose career was cut tragically short when he was paralysed due to a car accident following the 1957 season.
After playing half a season with the Dodgers in 1948, Campanella established himself as a star for the rest of his career. He made seven All-Star games and won the MVP award three times. A dominant offensive force, he hit over thirty home runs four times and led the National League with 142 RBI in 1953.
A career .276/.360/.500 hitter with 242 home runs and 856 RBI, Campanella was able to only give a glimpse of the type of player he could have been. Had he been able to play in the Majors from the beginning, and had his career not been cut short, he could have ranked even higher among the greatest players in MLB history.
Campanella was more than just an offensive force. Running against him was a risky proposition at best, as he led the league in caught stealing percentage in each of his first four seasons. His 57.4% caught stealing is the best ever in baseball, and he never finished worse than fourth in any season. He was also perennially among the league leaders in range factor and putouts, showing a stellar all around game.
One of the first African American stars in the Majors, Roy Campanella belongs in the discussion for the best catcher in MLB history. Had he been able to enjoy his full career, that may not even be a debate.
Next: A controversial MVP snub
42. Pedro Martinez
Despite standing just under six feet tall and weighing only 170 pounds, Pedro Martinez was a giant on the mound, a pitcher who was not afraid of anyone and would challenge any hitter at any time.
While he initially came up with a blazing fastball, Martinez reinvented himself as he mastered a devastating changeup. Despite that change in focus, he was still one of the great strikeout pitchers of his time, leading the league three times to go along with five ERA titles and his impeccable control. He made eight All-Star Games, and won the Cy Young award three times, finishing in the top five on four other occasions.
In his career, Martinez had a 219-100 record with a 2.93 ERA and a 1.054 WHiP, striking out 3154 batters in 2827.1 innings. He ranks sixth all time in WHiP and in winning percentage, and is 13th in strikeouts. Martinez ranks third with 10.04 strikeouts per nine innings, and fourth with 4.15 strikeouts per walk.
Martinez was one of the few that were able to completely transition from being a hard thrower to being a control based strikeout artist. He turned his changeup into a true weapon, spotting his pitches and painting the corners like a true master. He certainly earned his place as a first ballot Hall of Famer in 2015.
One of the greatest pitchers of his time, Pedro Martinez cemented his place as a legend of the game when he helped lead the Red Sox to their first title in 86 years in 2004, helping to end the Curse of the Bambino. Of all his accomplishments, that one may withstand the test of time, making Martinez even more of a legend than he already is.
Next: Mr. October
41. Reggie Jackson
Best known for his exploits in the postseason, Reggie Jackson was one of the more fearsome sluggers of his time, a player whose prowess with the bat was only matched by his colorful personality.
A star with the Oakland A’s, Jackson truly burst into the national consciousness when he came to the New York Yankees. His extreme confidence and swagger, along with his feuds with manager Billy Martin, made him a fixture in the tabloids and a favorite source of quotes for the media.
Yet, Jackson was a lot more than his image. He was a true power hitter, leading the league in home runs on four different occasions. He put everything he had into his swing, leading to a great deal of strikeouts; in fact, Jackson’s career 2597 strikeouts are the most in MLB history. The MVP of the 1973 season, Jackson was a 14 time All-Star and truly larger than life.
In his storied career, Jackson posted a career .262/.356/.490 batting line, hitting 563 home runs and driving in 1702 runs. He ranks 13th in homers and 23rd in RBI, helping anchor the lineup around him. Jackson also had solid speed in his younger days, finishing his career with 228 stolen bases and having four seasons with twenty homers and twenty steals.
Reggie Jackson was at his best when the spotlight was shining, and with his bravado and refusal to back down, he was constantly under that glare. As evidenced by his production, he relished every moment of it.
Next: A true natural
40. Ken Griffey Jr
Ken Griffey Jr. was on pace to be one of the greatest players in baseball history before injuries limited his ability and hampered his career. Yet, even with those issues, he was still able to secure his place as one of the best players ever.
A phenom from the time he was drafted, Griffey was on pace to be a star from the moment he reached the majors as a 19 year old. He provided several memorable moments at the beginning of his career, such as playing with his father Ken Griffey Sr. and hitting a home run in the same game as Sr. did. He made 13 All-Star games, won the MVP award in 1997 and finished in the top five four other times.
A seven time Silver Slugger, Griffey finished his career with a .284/.370/.538 batting line, hitting 630 home runs with 1,836 RBI. He hit over 40 home runs six different times, and ranks sixth in MLB history. His 1,836 RBI are 15th, and he ranks in the top 20 in intentional walks, total bases and extra base hits.
Griffey was a stellar center fielder, winning the Gold Glove award literally every year throughout the 1990’s. Blessed with fabulous range and a great arm, Griffey ranks sixth with 5,147 putouts, eleventh with 141 assists and seventh with 41 double plays from center.
A true star with the Seattle Mariners, Griffey’s career was derailed by injuries upon his trade to the Cincinnati Reds, robbing him of his chance to chase history. Yet, even with the disappointment of those injuries, Griffey was still one of the true greats.
Next: One of the more hated players in the game
39. Alex Rodriguez
A player who has seemingly been embroiled in controversy for the greater part of his career, Alex Rodriguez has put together a great career, but has become better known for his PED usage and his incredible ability rub people the wrong way.
His personality detracts from what Rodriguez accomplished on the field. He hit over forty home runs eight times, won the MVP award three times and earned ten Silver Slugger awards. A 14 time All-Star, Rodriguez was one of the premier sluggers of his generation, a great power threat at short, and later, at third.
Even though he has slowed down in recent years, his list of accomplishments are still tremendous. Rodriguez is the active leader in home runs, RBI, hits, runs scored, walks and strikeouts. He is already over 3,000 hits, and is rapidly closing in on the 700 home run plateau. He is certainly among the most prolifilic hitters in the history of the game.
Rodriguez was also a solid defensive shortstop before being moved to third when he was acquired by the Yankees. Even though it has been over a decade since he played short, Rodriguez ranks in in the top five amongst active players in putouts and assists at the position. He may not have been as great at third, but Rodrigues held his own before being made the Yankees primary designated hitter.
Unfortunately, we can never look at Alex Rodriguez without his PED usage coming to the forefront. He was named in the Mitchell Report, and was suspended for 162 games due to his ties with Biogenesis. One has to wonder how many of his accomplishments are legitimate. Otherwise, Rodriguez would have ranked higher on this list.
Next: The King of Theives
38. Rickey Henderson
The greatest base stealer in MLB history, Rickey Henderson played the game with a great deal of flair and panache, putting together a truly memorable career.
A bit of a baseball mercenary, Henderson was not shy about selling his services to the highest bidder. He was great and he knew it, referring to himself in the third person and backing up his bravado on the field. He led the league in stolen bases ten times, including an astonishing 130 steals in 1982. Henderson turned the stolen base into an art form.
When he retired, Henderson held the record for runs scored and steals. He produced a career .279/.401/.419 batting line, stealing 1,406 bases and scoring 2,295 runs. Henderson also had 3,055 hits and 297 home runs, showing he was truly an all around talent on offense.
Henderson also used that impressive speed to be a stellar left fielder. He finished second all time with 5,215 putouts, and is 16th with 124 assists. He saved 58 runs in left, the eleventh best mark in MLB history, and is third with a 2.41 range factor. Yet, even with those accomplishments in the field, Henderson only won one Glod Glove award.
Considered the best leadoff hitter of all time, Rickey Henderson ran his way into the record books, and into the ranks of the greatest players of all time.
Next: He didn't say everything he said
37. Yogi Berra
One of the greatest catchers in the history of the New York Yankees, Yogi Berra was known for his various malapropisms, or ‘Yogi-isms’ as they would be called.
When he was not butchering the English language or trying to get players to “pair off in threes,” he was hammering baseballs around Yankee Stadium. One of the better power hitting catchers in MLB history, Berra had twenty or more home runs in eleven different seasons, including ten in a row from 1949 through 1958. He won three MVP awards, and finished second on two other occasions, showing his value on the juggernaut Yankees squads of the 1950’s and early 1960’s.
In his impressive career, Berra posted a .285/.348/.482 batting line with 358 home runs and 321 doubles. He had an excellent eye at the plate, drawing 704 walks while striking out only 414 times in his 8,359 career plate appearances. Even though he never led the league in any offensive category, Berra was consistently in the top ten in slugging percentage and home runs, furthering his place as one of the best offensive catchers in the game.
Defensively, Berra was a solid catcher, routinely ranking among the leaders in putouts and assists. His strong arm led to a career 48.6% caught stealing rate, and he ranks third all time with 175 career stolen bases. In 1958, in his 88 games behind the plate, Berra did not commit a single error and allowed only five passed balls.
In the running for the greatest catcher in baseball history, Berra continued what would prove to be a tradition of excellent Yankees catchers that lasted through the 1970’s. A legend, not just in the Bronx, Berra was remembered for his production and his entertaining quotes.
Next: The machine
36. Albert Pujols
Albert Pujols may no longer be the offensive threat he was when he played for the St. Louis Cardinals, but as The Machine winds down, his career will be remembered as one of the greatest in MLB history.
A truly beloved figure when he was in St. Louis, Pujols led the league in runs five times, home runs twice and in OPS three times as a member of the Cardinals. He has been a three time MVP, a six time Sliver Slugger and an All-Star nine times, with all but one coming during his time with St. Louis. Even though he has not been the same player with the Angels, Pujols has still retained that power stroke.
At age 36, Pujols is continuing his mark on the MLB record books. He is closing in on 3,000 hits and 600 home runs, while continuing to make contact more often than not when at the plate. He may no longer hit the ball with the same authority, but he still has enough pop in his bat to keep rising through the all time greats.
With Pujols production with the bat, his ability with the glove has been overlooked. He has won two Gold Gloves in his career, and has saved over 100 runs with his ability around first. Already in the top fifty in putouts, assists and double plays, he is certain to climb through that list before he ends up as the Angels designated hitter.
Albert Pujols is winding down his career before our eyes, but he still has a few more years left in his bat. It will be fascinating to see where he ends up in the record books once his career is over.
Next: The Little General
35. Johnny Bench
One of the key cogs in the Big Red Machine of the 1970’s, Johnny Bench was one of the greatest hitting catchers in the history of the game.
His powerful bat helped fuel the Reds dynasty of the 1970’s, as he hit over twenty home runs eleven times, including two seasons with forty or more. He led the league in RBI three times, helping him earn 14 All-Star Game nods and two MVP awards.
A stellar hitter, Bench produced a career .267/.342/.476 batting line with 381 doubles, 389 home runs and 1,376 RBI. While he ranks in the top 200 in quite a few categories, Bench is prominent when looking at the best offensive players ever behind the plate. He ranks third all time in home runs and RBI, fifth in doubles, and tenth in OPS among catchers.
Bench was also a great defensive backstop. He won ten Gold Glove awards, and was named to the Rawlings All Time Gold Glove Team in 2007. He possessed a strong arm in his youth, ranking among the league leaders in assists and caught stealing percentage for most of the 1970’s. In his long, illustrious career, Bench saved 97 runs behind the plate, the seventh most in MLB history.
An solid offensive player and a stellar defensive catcher, Johnny Bench powered the Big Red Machine in the 1970’s. His incredible production made Bench one of the true legends of the game.
Next: The most wins of any lefty pitcher
34. Warren Spahn
Despite not having a full season in the Majors until age 26, Braves legend Warren Spahn became the all time winningest left handed pitcher in MLB history thanks to his remarkable consistency.
After missing three seasons due to World War II, Spahn became one of the more consistent pitchers from the end of the 1940’s through the early 1960’s. He won twenty or more games 13 times, leading the National League eight times. A true workhorse, he had 17 consecutive seasons of 200 or more innings pitched, and led the league in complete games nine times.
A 14 time All-Star and the 1957 Cy Young award winner, Spahn finished his career with a 363-245 record, posting a 3.09 ERA and a 1.195 WHiP, striking out 2,583 batters. His 363 wins are the sixth most in baseball, and he ranks eighth all time in innings pitched, sixth in shutouts and 21st in complete games.
Considering his remarkable durability and consistency, Spahn may have missed his chance to be the third pitcher in MLB history to win 400 games due to World War II. Even if he managed 13 wins a season during that time, he would have eclipsed that mark. Given the lesser degree of talent in the majors at the time, it seems likely that Spahn would not have had a problem getting those victories.
One of the best left handed pitchers in baseball history, Warren Spahn was the model of durability and consistency. Yet, even with that production, one still has to wonder where Spahn would have ranked had he not lost that time due to his military service.
Next: The hit king
33. Pete Rose
Pete Rose may be a controversial figure in regards to whether or not he should be allowed back into the game, but there is no questioning his contributions to the game.
Called ‘Charlie Hustle’ due to his habit of sprinting to first on walks and giving max effort at all times, Rose hit the ground running and never stopped. During his 24 year career, Rose had over 200 hits ten times, and led the league in hits seven times. A three time hitting champion, Rose also led the league in doubles five times and runs on four occasions.
The 1973 MVP, Rose was a 17 time All-Star renowned for his ability to get hits. He produced a .303/.375/.409 batting line with a Major League record 4,256 hits. Rose ranks second all time with 746 doubles, sixth with 2,165 runs and 14th with 1,566 walks. He was a master of the base hit, with his 3,215 career singles the most of all time.
Rose was also a versatile defensive player. He appeared in over 500 games at five different positions, with varying degrees of competency. He won two Gold Gloves in the outfield, and saved 54 runs as a left fielder, but was either average or below average at every other position. However, his ability in left led to him ranking 14th in runs saved and ninth in fielding percentage.
Unfortunately, due to his gambling addiction, Pete Rose will likely never see the inside of the Hall of Fame without a ticket. Those issues, however, do not detract from what Rose was able to accomplish on the field.
Next: The greatest catcher in baseball history
32. Carlton Fisk
When arguing who the greatest catcher in MLB history was, Carlton Fisk will inevitably get a lot of votes. Considering how he performed during his career, and his standing amongst the all time greats, it is entirely understandable that he would be considered the best catcher to play the game.
Even though Fisk was one of the best catchers to ever play the game, one could argue that he was actually underappreciated during his playing career. He had eight twenty home run seasons, and 13 seasons with twenty or more doubles. Fisk even stole double digit bases four times, tying his career high with 17 steals as a 37 year old in 1985. Yet, in his 24 year career, Fisk only made eleven All-Star Games and had only one top five finish in the MVP award.
When his career came to an end, Fisk had one of the best careers of anyone that spent their career behind the plate. He produced a .269/.341/.457 batting line, hitting 376 home runs and 421 doubles, driving in 1,330 runs. While not amongst the true elite performers, Fisk ranks in the top 100 in home runs and RBI, an impressive accomplishment for a catcher.
Fisk was also fairly underrated defensively. Although he only won one Gold Glove, he ranks sixth with 11,369 putouts, 12th with 147 double plays as a catcher and 38th with 1,043 assists. Although he did not have the greatest arm, Fisk ranks 37th with 665 runners caught stealing. He was certainly a solid defensive backstop.
Carlton Fisk is best remembered for his iconic home run in Game Six of the 1975 World Series, when he waved his home run against the Cincinnati Reds fair. He was also arguably the greatest catcher in MLB history.
Next: The last man to pitch 300 innings
31. Steve Carlton
One of the great workhorses in MLB history, Steve Carlton was perhaps the greatest pitcher of the 1970’s.
Despite pitching for some terrible Phillies teams, Carlton won twenty or more games six times, leading the National League in wins on four occasions. He pitched over 200 innings 16 times, going over the 300 inning mark twice, including 1980, when he became the final pitcher to throw over 300 innings in a season. The first pitcher with four Cy Young awards, Carlton was a ten time All-Star and finished fifth in the MVP vote three times.
In his long and storied career, Carlton posted a 329-244 record with a 3.22 ERA and a 1.247 WHiP. In his 5217.2 innings, Carlton struck out 4,136 batters with 1,833 walks. Carlton ranks 11th in wins, ninth in innings, fourth in strikeouts and 14th in career shutouts. He was truly one of the dominant pitchers of his time.
Carlton was also locked in a battle with Nolan Ryan for the all time strikeout lead. While Ryan would end up running away with that crown, Carlton and Ryan passed the title back and forth, with the legendary Ryan finally taking the crown away for good on September 5, 1984.
One of the best left handed pitchers of all time, Steve Carlton was a true workhorse the likes of which we will never see again.
Next: Let's play two!
30. Ernie Banks
Of all the great players in MLB history that never got to play in the postseason, Chicago Cubs shortstop and first baseman Ernie Banks has to rank that the top of that list.
Banks, who holds the distinction as the first black player in Cubs history, was also arguably their greatest player. A stellar hitter with excellent power, Banks had seven seasons with thirty or more home runs, five seasons with forty or more homers, and led the league in long balls twice. He had eight seasons with 100 or more RBI, made eleven All-Star Games and was a two time MVP.
In his 19 year Major League career, Banks produced a .274/.330/.500 batting line, hitting 512 home runs and driving in 1,636 runs. He currently ranks 23rd in home runs and 31st in RBI. One of the more feared power hitters of his day, Banks was intentionally walked 198 times, the 16th most in history.
While one thinks of Banks at short, he actually played more games at first during his career as the Cubs sought a way to limit injury risk to their star. At either position, Banks was a solid defensive player, ranking among the league leaders in putouts and range factor. A Gold Glove winner at short, Banks ranks in the top 100 in putouts, double plays and range factor at both first and short.
Ernie Banks, who would come to be known as Mr. Cub, became one of the greatest players in the game, and the best player in the history of his franchise.
Next: One of the more feared pitchers in the game
29. Bob Gibson
In terms of the most dominant years in MLB history, Bob Gibson’s 1968 season has to rank near the top of that list. Yet, he was more than just that one season.
More of the more dominant, and feared, pitchers of his era, Gibson was a pitcher who transcended eras. Fear and intimidation were a part of his game, a throwback to a bygone time, while he was a strikeout artist the likes of which would become more common in the modern era. An eight time All-Star, Gibson won two Cy Young awards and the MVP in 1968, a year where he went 22-9 with a 1.12 ERA and 0.853 WHiP, striking out 268 batters in 304 innings in what may have been the greatest season on the mound in the modern era.
In his career, Gibson posted a 251-174 record with a 2.91 ERA and a 1.198 WHiP, striking out 3117 batters in 3884.1 innings. Even though he had quite the intimidating presence, Gibson only hit 102 batters, 81st all time. He ranks 14th in strikeouts, 13th in shutouts and 42nd in hits per nine innings. He was truly one of the dominant pitchers of his time.
Gibson’s greatest weapon, however, was not his blazing fastball, but his aura. Joe Torre once called his presence on the mound “hateful,” as he used his fearsome reputation and a fastball that could touch 100 MPH as effectively as anyone in his era. His great stuff played up even more due to that intimidation factor.
The poster child for the Year of the Pitcher, Bob Gibson was more than just a phenomenon of that time. He was truly a dominant pitcher who excelled even when the mound was lowered, someone who would have done well regardless of the era.
Next: King of the Royals
28. George Brett
A true star during the 1980’s, George Brett is still the face of the Kansas City Royals over two decades after he played his final game.
The only player to win a batting title in three different decades, Brett truly burst into stardom during the 1980 season. That year, he flirted with a .400 batting average through September 19 before finally dropping under that threshold, cementing his place as one of the legends of the game. He made 13 All-Star Games, won the MVP award in 1980. A three time batting champion, Brett hit over twenty home runs eight times and led the league in hits three times.
During his career, Brett produced a .305/.369/.487 batting line, hitting 317 home runs and 665 doubles. Brett’s 3,154 hits rank 16th all time, and he is sixth in doubles and 36th in RBI. He even had a surprising amount of speed for a third baseman, hitting 137 triples and stealing 201 bases in his 21 year career.
The 1985 Gold Glove winner, Brett was also a solid defensive third baseman. He ranks 18th in assists and 24th in double plays at third, ranking 28th with 54 runs saved. Brett also had quite a bit of range, with his 3.11 range factor per nine innings ranking eighth all time.
A fiery competitor who is well remembered for the Pine Tar Incident and his punching of Graig Nettles during the 1977 postseason, George Brett was the heart and soul of the Kansas City Royals first Golden Age. It is not a surprise that the only player to go in the Hall of Fame as a Royals is still the face of the franchise.
Next: An early star in Boston
27. Kid Nichols
One of the great pitchers of the 1890’s, Kid Nichols made quite the mark on the early days of Major League Baseball.
The winningest pitcher of the 1890’s, Nichols was a star almost from the moment he stepped on the field as a 20 year old. He won thirty or more games seven times, leading the National League in victories thrice. A true workhorse, Nichols pitched over 300 innings twelve times and took pride in never being taken out of the game for a relief pitcher.
Despite his career ending over a century ago, Nichols is still all over the all time leaderboards. He posted a 361-208 record with a 2.96 ERA and a 1.224 WHiP, striking out 1,881 batters. He ranks seventh in wins, 11th in innings pitched, and is still in the top 100 in strikeouts. Nichols is fourth all time in complete games, and 25th in shutouts.
During a time where pitchers were required to be far better fielders than they are today, Nichols acquitted himself quite well on the mound. He typically ranked among the league leaders in putouts and fielding percentage, and would likely have won several Gold Gloves had the award existed back then. As it is, Nichols ranks 18th in career putouts and 20th in assists in MLB history for pitchers.
One of the greatest pitchers before the turn of the century, Kid Nichols was a star for the early Boston Braves teams, helping to begin the excellent legacy that the game has in the Northeast.
Next: Oh Captain, my Captain
26. Derek Jeter
Derek Jeter will be remembered not just for being the shortstop of the most recent New York Yankees dynasty, but as one of the best players of his generation.
While he only led the league in hits twice and runs once, Jeter certainly left his mark on the record books due to his remarkable consistency and durability. He had eight seasons with 200 or more hits, and nine seasons with 15 or more home runs. He led the league with 216 hits at age 38, continuing his production right through the end of his career.
A sure fire Hall of Fame player when he is eligible, Jeter posted a career .310/.377/.440 batting line with 260 home runs and 358 stolen bases. His 3,465 hits rank sixth in MLB history, and he is 11th in runs scored and 31st in doubles. Jeter was seemingly always on base, ranking 12th in history, having reached base 4,717 times in his career.
He may not have been the same defensive player later in his career, but Jeter positioned himself like no other, seemingly knowing where each batter would hit the ball. He won five Gold Gloves, and ranks 17th in putouts, tenth in assists and sixth in double plays at short. Even if his range was not the best, Jeter made every play he could get to, with his jump throw becoming truly iconic.
The biggest star of the home grown talent to bring the New York Yankees back to their winning way, Derek Jeter’s class and professional approach exemplified what the team became.
Next: This Foxx was a beast
25. Jimmie Foxx
In the 1930’s, the Yankees had Lou Gehrig. The Philadelphia Athletics, and later the Boston Red Sox, had their answer at first with Jimmie Foxx.
A fearsome slugger who was one of the strongest men in baseball, Foxx was said to have muscles on his muscles. He hit over fifty home runs twice, and had 12 seasons with thirty or more home runs. A nine time All-Star and three time MVP, Foxx led the league in homers four times and RBI three times, With 500 home runs at age 32, Foxx seemed destined to challenge Babe Ruth for the all time home run lead before he sharply declined due to complications from being hit in the head with a pitch.
Even though his career ended earlier than one would have expected, Foxx still produced quite the impressive resume. He had a .325/.428/.609 batting line with 512 home runs, a mark that was second at the time he retired. As it stands, Foxx is still 18th in MLB history. He also ranks fourth in slugging, tenth in on base percentage, ninth with 1,922 RBI and 23rd with 1,423 walks.
Foxx was also a relatively solid first baseman. A player who bounced around the diamond, playing catcher and third while also seeing time in the outfield and on the mound, Foxx ranks in the top thirty all time in putouts, assists and double plays at first. On the mound, Foxx appeared in ten games, nine of them in his final season, posting a 1-0 record with a 1.52 ERA and a 1.141 WHiP, striking out eleven batters in 23.2 innings.
A feared slugger who could hit the ball as hard, if not harder, than anyone in the game, Jimmie Foxx was one of the best sluggers that the game had seen. Had he not been hit in the head, his career could have been even better.
Next: The Phillies star
24. Mike Schmidt
Mike Schmidt had an awful rookie season, barely hitting his weight and striking out in over a third of his at bats. After that season, Schmidt became a superstar.
One of the greatest power hitters at third, Schmidt continued to strike out at a high rate, but he also drew a lot of walks and hammered the ball when he made contact. Schmidt led the league in home runs eight times and had 13 seasons with thirty or more long balls. A 12 time All-Star and a three time MVP, Schmidt went from being the object of derision in his rookie season to becoming one of the more beloved figures in Philadelphia sports history.
In his illustirous career, Schmidt produced a .267/.380/.527 batting line with 548 home runs and 1,595 RBI. The record holder for career home runs and RBI for a third baseman, Schmidt ranks 16th in homers and 37th in RBI in MLB history. He also ranks 18th in walks and tenth in strikeouts, as the patience, and strikeout tendencies, from his early days continued throughout his career.
Schmidt was far more than a power hitter. He was arguably one of the greatest fielding third basemen in history, winning ten Gold Glove awards. His strong arm allowed Schmidt to rack up 5,045 assists, third most in history, and his 450 doubles plays rank fifth. He is also eighth with 129 runs saved at third, showing his all around ability.
Mike Schmidt is remembered for his power hitting, but he provided far more than that. Perhaps the greatest all around third baseman of all time, Schmidt’s legacy continues to endure.
Next: A giant on the mound
23. Randy Johnson
A pitcher with a blazing fastball, questionable command and an intimidating presence, Randy Johnson invoked images of Nolan Ryan. Ironically, it would be Ryan, along with Rangers pitching coach Tom House, who unlocked Johnson’s potential, tweaking his mechanics so that he improved his command, allowing Johnson to become one of the truly dominant pitchers of his time.
With a fastball that would touch triple digits and his 6’10” frame making it seem as though he was on top of the batter when the ball came out of his hand, Johnson was an elite strikeout artist. He topped 300 strikeouts six times and led the league in whiffs on nine occasions. He won four ERA titles, made ten All-Star Games and won five Cy Young awards, finishing second three other times.
During his career, which truly took off at the age of 29, Johnson produced a 303-166 record with a 3.29 ERA and a 1.171 WHiP, striking out 4,875 batters in 4135.1 innings. He ranks second all time in strikeouts, and is the all time leader with 10.6 strikeouts per nine innings. Johnson also ranks 41st with a 3.257 strikeout to walk rate, a truly impressive feat given his early bouts of wildness and issues with command.
Johnson had several other feats on the mound as well. He threw two no hitters, with his second being a perfect game against the Atlanta Braves in 2004, making Johnson the oldest pitcher to achieve that feat. He also struck out 20 Cincinnati Reds in a nine inning game, but with the game tied at 1-1 through nine, was relieved by Byung-hyun Kim in extra innings.
A large presence on the mound with an even bigger fastball, the left handed Randy Johnson may well be the greatest lefty in MLB history. Had he found his command even earlier, one can only imagine what his career would have looked like.
Next: The first black manager in MLB history
22. Frank Robinson
Frank Robinson was one of the greatest power hitters in MLB history, achieving a couple of interesting firsts in his career, but his play on the diamond is largely forgotten due to his numerous stints as a manager.
A feared player not just for his power, but because of his surly nature on the diamond, Robinson played the game with a reckless abandon that is rarely seen these days. He would slam into walls, and delight in taking out middle infielders and catchers in collisions that hurt just to watch. However, that pounding did not make a difference in his performance, as Robinson became the only player to win an MVP in both leagues and made twelve All-Star Games.
One of the best power hitters to play the game, Robinson posted a .294/.389/.537 batting line with 586 home runs and 1,812 RBI. He ranks ninth all time in home runs, and is 20th in RBI, while ranking in the top fifty in hits, doubles, walks, extra base hits and slugging percentage. Robinson also had a good amount of speed in his younger days, stealing 204 bases in his career.
Robinson was also a solid defensive player, playing all three outfield positions even though he spent most of his time at the corners. Despite playing only 834 games in left, he ranks 31st with 30 runs saved. He is also prominently represented on the leader boards in right, making Robinson a fairly underrated defensive player.
The first black manager in MLB history, Frank Robinson is best remembered these days for his time managing and his various roles within the MLB. However, he was a stellar player, and one whose career is unfortunately overlooked.
Next: A truly terrific pitcher
21. Tom Seaver
One of the best pitchers in the 20th century, Tom Seaver’s trade from the New York Mets is still bemoaned by Mets fans almost 40 years later.
Perhaps the best pitcher in the 1970’s, Seaver was a true star. He led the National League in strikeouts five times, and have over 200 strikeouts ten times. He won over twenty games five times, leading the league on three occasions, and was a three time ERA leader. Seaver won three Cy Young awards, and finished second twice, while making 12 All-Star Games.
In his career, Seaver posted a 311-205 record with a 2.86 ERA and a 1.121 WHiP, striking out 3,640 batters. He ranks 18th in wins, sixth in strikeouts and 34th in WHiP. A true workhorse, Seaver is 99th in complete games, and ranks seventh with his 61 shutouts.
For Mets fans, Seaver is remembered for his greatness during the late 1960’s and into the 1970’s, and his trade to Cincinnati. Sent to the Reds in exchange Pat Zachary, Doug Flynn, Steve Henderson and Dan Norman, his departure from Queens is still a sore point among older Mets fans.
Tom Seaver was a part of a Golden Age of pitching during the 1960’s and 1970’s, a true ace who helped the 1969 Mets shock the world as they won the World Series. Even without title, Seaver was still one of the true greats.
Next: A lonely nation turns its eyes to him
20. Joe DiMaggio
Known for his marriage to Marilyn Monroe and for his seemingly unbreakable 56 game hitting streak, Joe DiMaggio had quite the impressive career, despite playing only 13 years.
One of the biggest stars of his era, DiMaggio was an All-Star every year in his career. He hit over thirty home runs seven times, leading the league in homers, RBI and batting average twice. DiMaggio won three MVP awards, and finished second twice. In fact, he received MVP votes in every season, excluding his last year in baseball.
Even with that short career, being interrupted by World War Two, DiMaggio produced an impressive resume. He had a .325/.398/.579 batting line, hitting 361 home runs and 381 doubles. He ranks tenth all time in slugging percentage, and is in the top seventy in batting average and on base percentage. DiMaggio ranks in the top 100 in home runs, RBI, triples and offensive WAR. Imagine what he could have done if he had not lost those three years.
A strong defensive outfielder, DiMaggio likely would have won several Gold Glove awards had the honor existed during his playing days. He consistently ranked among the league leaders in putouts and assists, with his strong arm helping him lead the American League in assists and double plays three times. As it stands, DiMaggio is 22nd in putouts, 16th in assists and 20th in double plays.
Joe DiMaggio was far more than just his 56 game hit streak, putting together a truly impressive career while being a great crossover star.
Next: The Rajah
19. Rogers Hornsby
The second greatest hitter in the history of baseball, Rogers Hornsby could also lay claim to being the greatest second baseman that ever lived, a fitting tribute given how he obsessed about the sport.
One of the great power hitters of his time, Hornsby had seven seasons with 20 or more home runs, while getting over 200 hits seven times and winning seven batting titles. He also had a brilliant eye at the plate, leading the league in walks four times. A two time MVP, Hornsby refused to do anything that he thought would strain his eyes and cause himself to be less productive at the dish.
That strategy certainly panned out. He retired with a .358/.434/.577 batting line, hitting 301 home runs and 541 doubles. Only Ty Cobb ranks ahead of Hornsby in career batting average, and when he retired, Hornsby was the National League leader in career home runs. To this day, he ranks seventh in OPS, eighth in on base percentage and 11th in slugging.
The one knock on Hornsby’s claim as the greatest second baseman ever was his defense. He was considered to be, at best, below average, with experts feeling that drops him behind the likes of Nap Lajoie and Joe Morgan. Even though he usually ranked among the leaders in errors, Hornsby was still an effective player, ranking in the top 50 in putouts, assists and double plays.
One of the players who could truly claim to rival Ty Cobb, Rogers Hornsby was a solid power hitter whose ability to put the ball in play was incredible, even during his era. His obsession with the game, and protecting his eyes to continue in the game he loved, certainly seemed to have worked.
Next: The Eagle has landed
18. Tris Speaker
While the trades of Babe Ruth and Jeff Bagwell resonate to this day with Red Sox fans, their trade of Tris Speaker was equally lamented during his career.
Playing during an era where triples were the true power hit and stolen bases were king, Speaker was one of the greatest stars of his day. He led the American League in doubles eight times, and had four 200 hit seasons. The 1912 MVP, Speaker produced a .383/.464/.567 batting line, collecting 222 hits while leading the league with 53 doubles and ten home runs.
In his incredible career, Speaker produced a .345/.428/.500 batting line, with his name showing up throughout the record books. His 792 career doubles are the most in MLB history, and Speaker ranks sixth in batting average and eleventh in on base percentage. His 3,514 hits are the fifth most in the history of the game, and he is sixth in triples and 13th in runs scored.
Speaker was also a tremendous outfielder with a great arm, leading center fielders in assists five times and double plays six times. His 322 assists and 107 double plays are the most in MLB history for a center fielder, and he ranks third all time with 5,409 putouts. His performance in the corner outfield spots was equally impressive, as he has the most assists and double plays of any outfielder in the history of the game.
A star when he was traded from the Red Sox for Sad Sam Jones and Fred Thomas, along with cash considerations, due to a contract dispute, Speaker is considered to be one of the “inner circle” members of the Hall of Fame. With his impressive numbers and all around game, it is easy to see why that is the case.
Next: The Professor
17. Greg Maddux
A quiet ace, Greg Maddux was the star of the Atlanta Braves pitching staff of the 1990’s, elevating the team into a dynasty in the National League.
The dominant pitcher of the NL during his era, there were few pitchers that were in the same class as Maddux for even one season, let alone during their careers. He won 15 games or more in 18 seasons, including 17 years in a row. Maddux led the league in shutouts five times, ERA four times and wins three times, while making eight All-Star Games and winning four consecutive Cy Young awards.
A master of consistency, Maddux produced an excellent 355-227 record with a 3.16 ERA and a 1.143 WHiP. His control was legendary, as he used his ability to hit the corners to rack up 3,371 strikeouts, the tenth most in MLB history despite never leading the league and only having more than 200 strikeouts in a season once. Maddux ranks eighth all time in wins and has the 35th best strikeout to walk rate in history.
Maddux was also one of the greatest fielding pitchers ever. He won 18 Gold Glove awards, and did not finish worse than third in range factor per nine innings from 1989 through 2008. He has the most putouts of any pitcher in MLB history and is eleventh in assists. He was a true asset as a fielder as well.
Greg Maddux may not have had the blazing fastball of others at the time, but he used his command and ability to make plays to shut down the opposition in a golden age for hitting.
Next: Mr. President
16. Pete Alexander
Better known as Grover Cleveland Alexander, Pete Alexander was named for one President, and was portrayed by a future President in the movie ‘The Winning Team.’
Arguably the best pitcher in the National League in the 1910’s and 1920’s, Alexander was a workhorse who dominated the competition. He had 15 seasons with 15 or more wins, leading the league in wins six times. He won the pitching Triple Crown four times, led the league in strikeouts and complete games six times, and led the league in ERA four times.
Alexander had quite the impressive career, pitching effectively into his 40’s. He finished with a 373-208 record, posting a 2.56 ERA and a 1.121 WHiP, striking out 2,198 batters. Tied with Christy Mathewson as the third winningest pitcher in MLB history, Alexander ranks tenth in innings, 13th in complete games and second in career shutouts.
He also had quite the memorable performance in the 1926 World Series. Facing off against the mighty Yankees, Alexander pitched complete game victories in Games Two and Six. In Game Seven, he entered the seventh with the bases loaded and two out, striking out Tony Lazzeri to end the threat, then pitching the final two innings to clinch the series.
One of the best pitchers of his time, Grover Cleveland Alexander would end up sinking into alcoholism during his playing days, eventually falling into misery and poverty before his death. Yet, during his prime, there were few pitchers as tough as Alexander, a true great of the game.
Next: They named the team for him
15. Nap Lajoie
You know that you’re a star when a team changes their name in honor of your accomplishments. That was the case when the Cleveland Indians, then called the Bronchos, changed their name to the Naps following the 1902 season.
It was easy to see why the Cleveland franchise would want to be named for Lajoie, as he had already established himself as a star. During is career, Lajoie won four batting titles, and led the league in hits four times. He led the league in doubles five times and RBI three times. His 1901 campaign was one for the ages, as Lajoie produced a .426/.463/.643 batting line, all of which led the league, while ranking atop the American League in runs, hits, doubles, home runs and RBI.
In his stellar career, Lajoie produced a .338/.380/.466 batting line with 3,243 hits and 657 doubles. He ranks 19th in career batting average, 14th in hits and seventh in doubles. At the time that Lajoie retired following the 1916 seasons, he ranked second in hits, trailing Honus Wagner by only 117 base knocks.
Even though Lajoie is best remembered for his prowess with the bat, he was a solid defensive player. He led the league in putouts five times, assists three times and double plays six times. He ranks in the top 25 in putouts, assists, double plays and range factor for second basemen, his ability with the glove withstanding the test of time.
One of the biggest stars of the game, Nap Lajoie was an impressive enough player where the Cleveland franchise took their namesake from him for over a decade. A century after his career ended, his accomplishments still stand the test of time.
Next: The Hammer
14. Hank Aaron
Hank Aaron never hit 50 home runs in a single season, but he was a remarkably consistent power hitter who would rewrite the record books as he went about his business with dignity and class despite the threats surrounding his home run chase.
Aaron was remarkable for his consistency during his career. He had 20 seasons with 20 or more home runs, 15 of which had 30 or more. He led the National League in home runs, slugging percentage, doubles and RBI four times. He made 24 All-Star Games, and in his 1957 season where he produced a .322/.378/.600 batting line with 44 home runs and 132 RBI ,won his only MVP award.
The numbers that Aaron produced are truly legendary. He had a .305/.374/.555 batting line, hitting 755 home runs, the second most in MLB history, with a record 2,297 RBI. Aaron holds the record for most extra base hits, most total bases, the most seasons with 100 or more runs (15) and the most consecutive seasons with 150 or more hits (17). His 3,771 hits are the third most in history, and he is tenth in doubles and seventh in times on base.
Given his excellent offense, Aaron was also underrated defensively. He won three Gold Glove awards, with the speed to make plays and a strong throwing arm. Aaron ranks fourth all time in putouts, eighth in assists and tenth in double plays as a right fielder, with his 97 runs saved ranking seventh. One could definitely argue that Aaron deserved more than three Gold Glove awards.
As he chased Babe Ruth, Hank Aaron received a great deal of vitriol due to his race, with death threats being constant. Yet, he continued to persevere, showing the same class and dignity that he displayed throughout his career. Along the way, he won over quite a few of those who had rooted against him.
Next: The all time wins leader
13. Cy Young
These days, Cy Young is remembered for his astonishing number of wins and the award that bears his name. However, during his playing days, Young was a workhorse in every sense of the word, a pitcher who would battle and take the ball every time his spot in the rotation came up.
An understated ace, Young had a blazing fastball during his younger days before becoming more of a control artist and relying on his breaking pitches. Young still remained effective, winning over 20 games an amazing 15 times, while pitching over 200 innings 19 times. He led the league in wins five times and shutouts seven times. Amazingly, Young only led his league in innings twice.
Everyone who follows baseball knows of Young’s 511-316 record, the most wins and losses in MLB history. However, that is not the end of Young’s place atop the record books. He is also atop the leader boards with 815 games started, 749 complete games and 29,565 batters faced. Through that workload, Young posted a 2.63 ERA and a 1.130 WHiP.
Young’s longevity also left its mark on the defensive side. While he was not exactly the greatest fielder amongst pitchers, even in his day, Young is the all time leader with 2,014 assists, leading the league three times. He is also fifth all time with 146 errors as a pitcher, a number that appears to be fairly representative of his ability on the mound.
Cy Young was far more than the wins and losses leader in MLB history. He was the greatest workhorse to ever pitch, a hurler who kept going strong despite an incredible amount of innings and complete games that would have felled lesser players.
Next: A great player and a better person
12. Roberto Clemente
Remembered for his deeds on and off the field, Roberto Clemente was a great player, and an even better person.
Stolen from the Brooklyn Dodgers in the Rule V Draft, Clemente went on to be a star for the Pittsburgh Pirates. One of the best players of the 1960’s and into the 1970’s, Clemente was a four time batting champion, going over 200 hits four times. He displayed an excellent ability to put the ball in play, strikng out more than 90 times only twice. A 12 time All-Star, Clemente was the 1966 MVP, as he had his greatest power season with 29 home runs and 31 doubles.
During his career, Clemente posted a .317/.359/.475 batting line, hitting 440 doubles. The only player with exactly 3,000 hits, he ranks 29th in hits, 27th in triples and 35th in intentional walks. His power was certainly evident, as even though he hit only 240 home runs, Clemente still instilled fear in the opposition.
Defensively, few players were in Clemente’s class in right. Possessing an incredible arm, Clemente won twelve Gold Glove awards. He is second all time with 4,445 putouts in right, and his 253 assists are the most in MLB history, as are his 203 runs saved. He also ranks tenth all time with 39 double plays, using his cannon to cut runners down with ease.
Unfortunately, Clemente’s career came to a tragic end. After an earthquake struck Nicaragua, Clemente went to Puerto Rico to head up the relief project, quickly becoming its leader. When he heard that supplies were not being given to the people, and were being seized by the military, Clemente boarded a flight to ensure those supplies got into the right hands. His airplane crashed off the coast of Puerto Rico on New Year’s Eve, and his body was never recovered.
Next: How great could he have been?
11. Mickey Mantle
There is no denying Mickey Mantle’s place amongst the greats of the game. Yet, his injuries and subsequent early decline make one wonder how good he could have been had he remained healthy.
As it stands, Mantle is certainly one of the best players ever to set foot on the diamond. He had nine 30 home run seasons, and hit 50 homers twice, leading the league four times. He was a five time league leader in runs scored and walks, and pitchers were careful with the slugger despite the great Yankees lineups of his day. A 16 time All-Star and a three time MVP, Mantle was one of the elite players in the 1950’s and 1960’s.
Even with those injuries, Mantle put together a career .298/.421/.557 batting line with 536 home runs. He ranks 18th in on base percentage, eighth in walks and 19th in slugging, a testament to his batting eye and prodigious power. Even though his 536 home runs are not as impressive in this day and age, he still ranks 17th in MLB history.
A solid center fielder, Mantle won the Gold Glove in 1962. In his career, he ranks in the top forty in putouts, assists and double plays in center. He may not rank in the same class as players like Willie Mays or Ken Griffey Jr, but Mantle had the speed to be able to make the plays needed, and his strong arm helped him overcome a lack of range as his injuries wore him down.
Those injuries to his knees, and his problems with alcohol and osteomylitis, led to a rapid decline after the age of 33, as Mantle just could not perform at his accustomed level. Had he stayed healthy, he had a chance to go down as the greatest player of all time.
Next: The original Iron Man
10. Lou Gehrig
While he may be remembered for his consecutive game streak and his bout with the disease that bears his name, Lou Gehrig was one of the great stars of his time and the perfect compliment to Babe Ruth.
Most players would have been overshadowed by Ruth, but Gehrig more than held his own. He made the first six All-Star Games, and won two MVP awards. He had ten 30 plus home run seasons, and from 1926 through 1938, both scored and drive in over 100 runs each year. Yet, Gehrig was far more than a power hitter, as he led the American League in on base percentage five times.
During his career, Gehrig produced a .340/.447/.632 batting line, hitting 493 home runs with 1,995 RBI. He ranks fifth all time in on base percentage and third in slugging. Gehrig’s name is prominent on the all time leaderboards, as he ranks sixth in RBI, and is in the top 50 in doubles, triples, home runs, runs scored and walks.
On defense, Gehrig could well have been in the running for a Gold Glove or two if the award existed during his career. He finished in the top three in putouts eight times, leading the league twice. In his career, Gehrig ranked ninth in putouts, 39th in assists and 16th in double plays, further proving that he was more than a one dimensional slugger.
Sadly, the disease that bears his name overshadows Lou Gehrig’s accomplishments on the field. He was far more than the consecutive game streak; he was a true all around player whose career was cut tragically short.
Next: Pittsburgh's greatest player
9. Honus Wagner
Arguably the greatest shortstop in MLB history, and the greatest player in the history of the Pittsburgh Pirates, Honus Wagner was one of the five players to be a part of the inaugural class enshrined in the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Called the “greatest player of all time” and “nearest thing to the perfect player” by legendary manager John McGraw, Wagner was one of the game’s superstars at the turn of the century. He was consistently among the best hitters of his time, winning eight batting titles. He led the league in doubles seven times, in RBI four times and in stolen bases five times. A power hitter in his time, Wagner led the National League in slugging six times.
A player who is often put in the conversation for the greatest of all time, Wagner produced a .328/.391/.467 batting line with 3,420 hits, 643 doubles and 252 triples, stealing 723 bases. While he may not be considered a power hitter by modern measures, Wagner is eight all time in hits, ninth in doubles, third in triples, and 24th in total bases. He even ranks tenth in stolen bases and 21st in RBI.
Defensively, while Wagner was mainly a shortstop, he played every position aside from catcher. With his strong arm and incredible instincts, Wagner ranks fourth in career putouts and 23rd in assists at short. His 5.63 range factor, an impressive number even for those days, is 11th all time.
To look at the bow legged and hefty frame, one would not have thought that Honus Wagner would be a ballplayer. As it turned out, appearances can be deceiving, as he became the greatest shortstop of all time.
Next: Big Six for eight
8. Christy Mathewson
At a time when baseball was still considered a bit of a ruffian’s sport, Christy Mathewson was a true gentleman and a scholar, as well as one of the greatest pitchers ever to live.
After being drafted by the Cincinnati Reds from the minors, the New York Giants traded star Amos Rusie to get his rights back. The trade worked out well for New York, as the young Mathewson blossomed into a star. He had 13 seasons with 20 or more wins, leading the league five times. Mathewson won the pitching Triple Crown twice, and was a five time leader in ERA and strikeouts.
Using his innate knowledge of what pitches to use and where to spot them, Mathewson dominated in his career. He posted a 377-188 record with a 2.13 ERA and a 1.058 WHiP, striking out 2,507 batters against 848 walks. Mathewson is tied for third in wins with Pete Alexander, and ranks ninth in ERA, seventh in WHiP and third in shutouts. Even now, in an age where hitters strike out with almost reckless abandon, Mathewson is still 32nd all time in strikeouts.
Mathewson was also a solid fielder on the mound. In an age where bunts were far more commonplace, he fielded his position well, leading the league in assists five times. He is currently 23rd all time in putouts, second in assists and 25th in range factor per game amongst pitchers.
A well spoken college graduate, Christy Mathewson was an anomoly during his time in the Majors. He proved to be just as good, if not better, than those farm boys he competed against, helping baseball become a more acceptable pastime.
Next: Mr. Cardinal
7. Stan Musial
It is strange to think that Stan Musial originally started his professional career as a pitcher. However, a sore arm and a lack of production on the mound led to Musial heading to the outfield, where he became one of the greatest hitters of all time.
The face of the St. Louis Cardinals throughout the 1940’s and 1950’s, Musial was a star almost immediately. A 20 time All-Star, Musial won three MVP awards in the 1940’s, and finished second four other times. He won seven batting titles, and had over 200 hits on six occasions. Musial led the league in hits six times, doubles eight times, triples five times and had thirty or more home runs six times, showcasing his all around offensive game.
During his impressive career, Musial posted a .331/.417/.559 batting line with 3,630 hits, 725 doubles, 475 home runs and 1,951 RBI. At the time he retired, Musial was second all time in hits; now, he ranks fourth. He ranks second in total bases, third in doubles, seventh in RBI and is 12th in OPS.
Musial split his career between the outfield and first base, playing well at each position. He played all three outfield positions, as well as first, and was around league average, if not a little better, at each spot. Maybe he was not a Gold Glove candidate, but he performed relatively well at each spot.
The best player in the 1940’s, Stan Musial was a star for two decades, and the face of the St. Louis Cardinals. The pride of St. Louis, and his parents home country of Poland, Musial was one of the best players the game ever saw.
Next: The Georgia Peach
6. Ty Cobb
Known for his combative nature, violent temper and ability to hit the ball, Ty Cobb was the greatest pure hitter the game has seen.
Driven by his personal demons to excel at any cost, Cobb took his frustrations out on the ball and anyone who came across him on the basepaths. He would infamously sharpen his spikes before the game, adding to his intimidation factor. Given his production, that intimidation may not have been needed. He had nine 200 hit seasons, stole 50 or more bases eight times, and was an 11 time batting leader.
Cobb’s brilliance with the bat is still legendary. He produced a .366/.433/.512 batting line, collecting 4,189 hits, 724 doubles and 295 triples, driving in 1,933 runs. A tremendous base stealer, Cobb swiped 892 bags. The all time leader in batting average, Cobb ranks second in runs scored, hits and triples, while ranking fourth in stolen bases and doubles.
He was an excellent defensive player as well. While he only led the league in assists and putouts once each, Cobb led the league in assists three times. Overall, Cobb ranks fifth all time in putouts for an outfielder, and is second in assists and double plays.
His violent reputation and prickly personality tarnished his legacy later in his life, but Ty Cobb has since had his accomplishments get the recognition they deserved.
Next: One of the last stars from the Negro Leagues
5. Willie Mays
With the Negro Leagues winding down in the early part of the 1950’s, it was becoming more difficult to find future Major League stars. However, the New York Giants found one with Willie Mays.
One of the greatest all around players in the history of the game, Mays’ accomplishments were enough to make him almost universally considered one of the top players in the history of the game. He made 20 All-Star Games, winning the MVP twice, and was a two time National League MVP. He led the league in home runs and stolen bases four times, and hit 30 or more home runs 11 times.
One of eight players with 300 home runs and 300 stolen bases in MLB history, Mays is the only member of that group with over 3,000 hits. He produced a .302/.384/.557 batting line, hitting 660 home runs and stole 338 bases. Mays ranks fifth all time in home runs, 12th in hits and 11th in RBI.
That impressive all around game continued on the defensive side. One of the greatest center fielders in history, Mays won an impressive 12 consecutive Gold Glove awards from 1957 through 1968. We all remember his over the shoulder catch on Vic Wertz‘ drive in the 1954 World Series, but that was not his only incredible play, as he made other similar catches throughout his career. He would end up first all time in putouts for outfielders, and ranks second among center fielders with 176 runs saved.
A truly great player, Willie Mays will forever be immortalized due to The Catch. One of the best all around players to set foot on the diamond, few players were at the same level as Mays.
Next: All aboard!
Despite a late introduction to the game, as he did not play organized baseball until he was 16, Walter Johnson was the greatest pitcher in MLB history.
Typically playing for woeful Washington Senators teams, Johnson’s record suffered due to a lack of run support. He was still great enough to win twenty or more games twelve times, leading the league in wins on six occasions. His fastball was legendary for its speed, as he retired as the all time strikeout leader, recording seven 200 strikeout seasons and two 300 strikeout years. These performances led to two MVP awards, as Johnson had established himself as one of the best players in the league.
His career numbers were truly amazing. Johnson had a 417-279 record with a 2.17 ERA and a 1.061 WHiP, striking out 3,509 batters in his 5914.1 innings. His 110 shutouts are the most in baseball history, and he ranks second in wins, ninth in WHiP and strikeouts, and fifth in complete games. Like Cy Young, who he trails on the wins list, Johnson is also high on the career loss list, ranking fourth all time.
In regards to making plays on the mound, Johnson was not one of the best as a glove man. He did, however, make the plays he could get to, as he led the league in fielding five times. He did lead the league in putouts three times, and ranks 26th in putouts and fifth in assists, but typically was not amongst the leaders in those categories. Of course, with the strikeouts that Johnson recorded, he did not have many opportunities.
The best pitcher in the history of the game, Walter Johnson was a modern pitcher, capable of striking out virtually everyone at any time, in the early days of the game. He was a sign of what was to come in the later decades as the game changed and strikeouts were no longer stigmatized.
Next: The first real power hitter
3. Babe Ruth
One of the first stars to transcend baseball, Babe Ruth was a larger than life personality whose power hitting, mammoth home runs, and love of the good life made him an icon. To this day, Ruth is one of the first players that one thinks of when talking about the greats of the game, and amazing feats on the diamond are considered ‘Ruthian.’
It is easy to understand why this would be the case. The first true power hitter in baseball history, Ruth shattered the perception of what baseball was supposed to be, making the home run a more common occurrence. Once he left the mound and became a full time outfielder, he regularly destroyed baseballs, hitting over 40 home runs 11 times, and leading the league on 12 occasions. He had 13 years with 100 RBI and twelve with 100 runs, and led the league in slugging another 13 times.
During his career, Ruth produced a .342/.474/.690 batting line, holding the MLB record in slugging percentage and OPS. He hit 714 home runs, currently third in MLB history, and is second with 2,214 RBI. He ranks second in on base percentage, third in walks, fourth in runs scored, and tenth in batting average. He was far more than just a slugger; Ruth was a fearsome hitter who could do just about anything with the bat.
He was also quite the excellent pitcher before transitioning full time to the outfield. Ruth twice won over 20 games in a season, and had three years with over 200 innings. In 1916, he led the league with a 1.75 ERA and nine shutouts. All told, Ruth posted a 94-46 record with a 2.28 ERA and a 1.159 WHiP. Given that production, he could have been a Hall of Fame caliber pitcher as well if he remained healthy.
To this day, when we think of the New York Yankees, Babe Ruth will immediately come to mind. The loveable Babe, a player that was worshipped by the masses, still casts a large shadow over the game today, helping make baseball into the game we know and love today.
Next: A controversial selection
2. Barry Bonds
There are eight members of the 300 home run/300 stolen base club. Barry Bonds is the only member of the 400/400 and 500/500 club, a statement to his amazing all around game.
The son of another 300/300 club member, Bobby Bonds, the godson of Willie Mays, and Reggie Jackson’s cousin, Barry appeared destined for stardom from the time he arrived in the Majors. Indeed, his accomplishments read like the numbers from a video game, as he had twelve seasons with forty or more home runs, including a record 73 homers in 2001. He was a 14 time All-Star, seven time MVP and 12 time Silver Slugger award winner.
In his career, Bonds produced a .298/.444/.607 batting line, hitting a record 762 home runs and driving in 1,996 runs. He is the all time leader with 2,558 walks and 688 intentional walks, including an amazing 120 intentional passes in 2004. Bonds ranks fifth in slugging and RBI, sixth in on base percentage, third in runs scored and his 514 steals are the 33rd most in MLB history.
A true five tool player, Bonds excelled in the field as well. He won eight Gold Gloves, as his speed helped him become the all time leader in putouts for a left fielder with 5,225. He ranks sixth with 158 assists, and is 16th in double plays. Bonds is also the all time leader in runs saved in left, saving an amazing 179 runs in his career.
Unfortunately, the PED taint is also attached to Bonds. However, he never tested positive for PEDs, only failing a test for stimulants in 2006. With his personal trainer, Greg Anderson, being tied to BALCO, enough of a connection is there where the latter part of his career is brought into question. Yet, his early days, when he was a five tool player, are still enough to make Bonds one of the greatest of all time.
Next: The greatest player in MLB history
1. Ted Williams
The greatest hitter that ever lived, Ted Williams impressive numbers would have been even better had he not lost five years to service in the Marines, serving as a fighter pilot in World War Two and the Korean War.
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Famous for being the last player to hit .400 in a season, Williams’ exploits with the bat were legendary. He was a six time batting leader, and led the American League in on base percentage twelve times. He had nine seasons where he scored 100 runs and had 100 RBI, and sixteen seasons with twenty or more home runs. A seventeen time All-Star, Williams won two MVP awards and finished second four other times.
His career numbers were truly great: a .344/.482/.634 batting line with 521 home runs and 1,839 RBI. The career leader in on base percentage, Williams would have easily gotten over 3,000 hits and could have approached both the 700 home run mark and the career RBI lead had he not missed time in the military. As it stands, Williams ranks eighth in batting average, second in slugging, 19th in home runs, 14th in RBI and fourth in walks.
While his accomplishments with the bat stand out, Williams was a solid left fielder as well. His strong arm and the short field in left served him well, as Williams was consistently among the league leaders in assists. Overall, Williams ranks ninth among left fielder in putouts, 11th in assists and tenth in double plays.
Next: Twelve players that made the ultimate sacrifice
Ted Williams impressive career numbers could have been even better, if not for World War Two and the Korean War. Even with those five missing seasons, he was still the greatest player in MLB history.