Honus Wagner (1900-1917)
Arguably the greatest shortstop in the history of the game, Honus Wagner certainly did not look the part.
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Barrel chested and bow legged, Wagner did not look like a great ball player. However, his ability on the diamond was unsurpassed, with the legendary Giants manager John McGraw referring to him as the greatest player he had seen. He won eight batting titles, and was one of the premier power hitters of his time. Wagner led the league in slugging six times, and in triples three times.
He was also an impressive defensive player, capable of playing anywhere on the diamond. Wagner had above average range at every position, filling in everywhere but behind the plate. He even pitched in two games, striking out six and allowing five unearned runs in his 8.1 innings.
Overall, Wagner produced an impressive .328/.391/.467 batting line, with 3420 hits and 4980 total bases. He hit 643 doubles and 252 triples, impressive power numbers for the time. Wagner was also a brilliant base stealer, swiping 723 bases in his career, and leading the league five times. There was not much that Wagner could not do on the field. After his playing career, he was a long time coach, and the first player in team history to have his number retired.
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One of the greatest shortstops in the history of the game, Honus Wagner was the greatest player in Pittsburgh Pirates history. In fact, he may well be the greatest player in the history of the game, regardless of position.