The 100 Greatest Baseball Players of All Time – The Ultimate List by Position

Baseball is more than a sport! It’s a legacy of greatness built by players who redefined what it means to excel. This article on the 100 Greatest Baseball Players of All Time pays tribute to the legends who have dominated the diamond, one position at a time.

We will be shedding light on the careers, teams, stats, and unique records of baseball’s finest, covering their standout stats, the teams they graced, and the records that set them apart.

It is time to celebrate the players who shaped the game, showcasing their impact and brilliance in every corner of the field.

Disclaimer: Determining the greatest player is subjective, as opinions often vary based on personal definitions of greatness and team loyalties. However, we have tried to remain as neutral as possible in our selections. Let’s get started!

The 10 Greatest Baseball Catchers of All Time

Catchers are the backbone of any baseball team, combining defensive brilliance with strategic game management. From iconic leaders behind the plate to players who changed the way the position is played; the following are the greatest Baseball catchers who have ever graced the pitch.

1. Johnny Bench

Teams: Cincinnati Reds (1967–1983)

Stats:

Career batting average: .267
Home runs: 389
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,376
10 Gold Glove Awards
14-time All-Star

Primary Position: Catcher

Unique Record: First catcher in MLB history to win multiple MVP awards (1970 and 1972).

2. Yogi Berra

Team(s): New York Yankees (1946–1963), New York Mets (1965)

Stats:

Career batting average: .285
Home runs: 358
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,430
15-time All-Star
10 World Series championships

Primary Position: Catcher

Unique Record: Most World Series championships won by a player (10)

3. Roy Campanella

Team(s): Brooklyn Dodgers (1948–1957)

Stats:

Career batting average: .276
Home runs: 242
Runs batted in (RBIs): 856
8-time All-Star
3-time National League MVP (1951, 1953, 1955)

Primary Position: Catcher

Unique Record: First catcher to win three National League MVP awards.

4. Gary Carter

Team(s): Montreal Expos (1974–1984, 1992), New York Mets (1985–1989), San Francisco Giants (1990), Los Angeles Dodgers (1991)

Stats:

Career batting average: .262
Home runs: 324
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,225
11-time All-Star
3 Gold Glove Awards

Primary Position: Catcher

Unique Record: The first player inducted into the Hall of Fame primarily for his contributions to the Montreal Expos.

5. Carlton Fisk

Team(s): Boston Red Sox (1969, 1971–1980), Chicago White Sox (1981–1993)

Stats:

Career batting average: .269
Home runs: 376
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,330
11-time All-Star
1 Gold Glove Award

Primary Position: Catcher

Unique Record: Holds the record for the most games caught in MLB history (2,226).

6. Mike Piazza

Team(s): Los Angeles Dodgers (1992–1998), Florida Marlins (1998), New York Mets (1998–2005), San Diego Padres (2006), Oakland Athletics (2007)

Stats:

Career batting average: .308
Home runs: 427
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,335
12-time All-Star
10 Silver Slugger Awards

Primary Position: Catcher

Unique Record: Most career home runs by a catcher (396).

7. Ivan Rodriguez

Team(s): Texas Rangers (1991–2002, 2009), Florida Marlins (2003), Detroit Tigers (2004–2008), New York Yankees (2008), Houston Astros (2009), Washington Nationals (2010–2011)

Stats:

Career batting average: .296
Home runs: 311
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,332
14-time All-Star
13 Gold Glove Awards

Primary Position: Catcher

Unique Record: Holds the record for the most Gold Glove Awards won by a catcher (13).

8. Gabby Hartnett

Team(s): Chicago Cubs (1922–1940), New York Giants (1941)

Stats:

Career batting average: .297
Home runs: 236
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,179
6-time All-Star
National League MVP (1935)

Primary Position: Catcher

Unique Record: Hit the famous “Homer in the Gloamin’” in 1938, one of the most legendary home runs in MLB history.

9. Bill Dickey

Team(s): New York Yankees (1928–1943, 1946)

Stats:

Career batting average: .313
Home runs: 202
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,209
11-time All-Star
8-time World Series champion

Primary Position: Catcher

Unique Record: Held the record for the highest fielding percentage by a catcher during his era.

10. Mickey Cochrane

Team(s): Philadelphia Athletics (1925–1933), Detroit Tigers (1934–1937)

Stats:

Career batting average: .320
Home runs: 119
Runs batted in (RBIs): 830
2-time American League MVP (1928, 1934)
3-time World Series champion

Primary Position: Catcher

Unique Record: Highest career batting average by a catcher (.320).

The 10 Greatest First Basemen of All Time

First basemen are the powerhouses of the lineup, often delivering big hits and providing defensive stability on the field. From towering home run kings to all-around athletes, the following are the legends who have defined excellence at first base throughout baseball history.

11. Jeff Bagwell

Team(s): Houston Astros (1991–2005)

Stats:

Career batting average: .297
Home runs: 449
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,529
4-time Gold Glove Award winner
1991 National League Rookie of the Year
1994 National League MVP

Primary Position: First Baseman

Unique Record: First player in MLB history to hit 400 home runs and steal 200 bases.

12. Rod Carew

Team(s): Minnesota Twins (1967–1978), California Angels (1979–1985)

Stats:

Career batting average: .328
Home runs: 92
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,015
18-time All-Star
7-time American League batting champion

Primary Position: First Baseman (originally Second Baseman)

Unique Record: The only player in MLB history to win a batting title in both the American and National Leagues.

13. Jimmie Foxx

Team(s): Philadelphia Athletics (1925–1935), Boston Red Sox (1936–1942), Chicago Cubs (1942–1945)

Stats:

Career batting average: .325
Home runs: 534
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,922
3-time MVP (1932, 1933, 1938)
9-time All-Star

Primary Position: First Baseman

Unique Record: Only one of two players (along with Babe Ruth) to hit over 500 home runs and drive in over 1,900 RBIs.

14. Lou Gehrig

Team(s): New York Yankees (1923–1939)

Stats:

Career batting average: .340
Home runs: 493
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,995
7-time All-Star
6-time World Series champion

Primary Position: First Baseman

Unique Record: Holds the record for most consecutive games played (2,130), a streak that stood for over 50 years.

15. Hank Greenberg

Team(s): Detroit Tigers (1930–1941, 1945–1946), Pittsburgh Pirates (1947)

Stats:

Career batting average: .313
Home runs: 331
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,274
2-time American League MVP (1935, 1940)
4-time All-Star

Primary Position: First Baseman

Unique Record: First player in MLB history to hit 30 home runs in a season as a Jewish player.

16. Willie McCovey

Team(s): San Francisco Giants (1959–1968, 1977–1980), San Diego Padres (1974–1976)

Stats:

Career batting average: .270
Home runs: 521
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,555
6-time All-Star
3-time World Series champion

Primary Position: First Baseman

Unique Record: McCovey holds the record for the most career grand slams (18) in MLB history.

17. Eddie Murray

Team(s): Baltimore Orioles (1977–1988, 1996), Los Angeles Dodgers (1989–1990), New York Mets (1991–1992), Cleveland Indians (1994–1996)

Stats:

Career batting average: .287
Home runs: 504
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,926
8-time All-Star
3 Gold Glove Awards

Primary Position: First Baseman

Unique Record: One of only three players in MLB history (along with Hank Aaron and Willie Mays) to hit 500 home runs and 3,000 hits.

18. Albert Pujols

Team(s): St. Louis Cardinals (2001–2011), Los Angeles Angels (2012–2021), Los Angeles Dodgers (2022)

Stats:

Career batting average: .296
Home runs: 703
Runs batted in (RBIs): 2,218
10-time All-Star
3-time MVP (2005, 2008, 2009)

Primary Position: First Baseman

Unique Record: Third player in MLB history to hit 700 career home runs, joining Babe Ruth and Hank Aaron.

19. Frank Thomas

Team(s): Chicago White Sox (1990–2005), Oakland Athletics (2006–2008), Toronto Blue Jays (2009)

Stats:

Career batting average: .301
Home runs: 521
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,704
2-time American League MVP (1993, 1994)
5-time All-Star

Primary Position: First Baseman

Unique Record: First player in MLB history to hit 500 home runs and maintain a career batting average of over .300.

20. Jim Thome

Team(s): Cleveland Indians (1991–2002), Chicago White Sox (2003–2009), Minnesota Twins (2010–2012), Philadelphia Phillies (2003, 2012–2013), Baltimore Orioles (2012)

Stats:

Career batting average: .276
Home runs: 612
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,699
5-time All-Star
1-time Silver Slugger Award

Primary Position: First Baseman

Unique Record: One of only eight players in MLB history to hit 600 home runs.

The 10 Greatest Second Basemen of All Time

Second basemen may not always get the spotlight, but their contributions to both offense and defense are crucial to a team’s success. From defensive maestros to offensive spark plugs, the following are our picks for the greatest players who have excelled at the heart of the infield and shaped the game’s history.

21. Roberto Alomar

Team(s): Toronto Blue Jays (1988–1995), Baltimore Orioles (1996–1998), Cleveland Indians (1999–2001), Chicago White Sox (2003), Arizona Diamondbacks (2004), and other teams.

Stats:

Career batting average: .300
Home runs: 210
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,134
12-time All-Star
10 Gold Glove Awards

Primary Position: Second Baseman

Unique Record: First second baseman in MLB history to win 10 Gold Gloves and hit for a .300 career batting average.

22. Craig Biggio

Team(s): Houston Astros (1988–2007)

Stats:

Career batting average: .281
Home runs: 291
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,175
7-time All-Star
5 Gold Glove Awards

Primary Position: Second Baseman (also played catcher and outfield)

Unique Record: One of only 30 players in MLB history to achieve 3,000 career hits.

23. Rod Carew

Team(s): Minnesota Twins (1967–1978), California Angels (1979–1985)

Stats:

Career batting average: .328
Home runs: 92
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,015
18-time All-Star
7 Gold Glove Awards

Primary Position: Second Baseman (also played first base)

Unique Record: Rod Carew won a batting title in 7 different seasons, showcasing his extraordinary ability to hit for average.

24. Eddie Collins

Team(s): Philadelphia Athletics (1906–1914), Chicago White Sox (1915–1930)

Stats:

Career batting average: .333
Home runs: 47
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,160
5-time All-Star
4-time World Series champion

Primary Position: Second Baseman

Unique Record: Eddie Collins led the American League in stolen bases 7 times, showcasing his base-running brilliance.

25. Bobby Doerr

Team(s): Boston Red Sox (1937–1951)

Stats:

Career batting average: .288
Home runs: 223
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,247
9-time All-Star
4 Gold Glove Awards

Primary Position: Second Baseman

Unique Record: Doerr was the first second baseman in MLB history to record over 100 RBIs in a season multiple times.

26. Charlie Gehringer

Team(s): Detroit Tigers (1924–1942)

Stats:

Career batting average: .320
Home runs: 184
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,424
6-time All-Star
4-time Gold Glove Award winner

Primary Position: Second Baseman

Unique Record: Gehringer was the American League MVP in 1937, an achievement that showcased his remarkable all-around skills.

27. Rogers Hornsby

Team(s): St. Louis Cardinals (1915–1926), Chicago Cubs (1929–1932), and other teams

Stats:

Career batting average: .358
Home runs: 301
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,584
7-time batting champion
2-time National League MVP (1925, 1929)

Primary Position: Second Baseman

Unique Record: Rogers Hornsby is one of the few players in MLB history to maintain a career batting average over .350.

28. Joe Morgan

Team(s): St. Louis Cardinals (1915–1926), Chicago Cubs (1929–1932), and other teams

Stats:

Career batting average: .358
Home runs: 301
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,584
7-time batting champion
2-time National League MVP (1925, 1929)

Primary Position: Second Baseman

Unique Record: Rogers Hornsby is one of the few players in MLB history to maintain a career batting average over .350.

29. Jackie Robinson

Team(s): Brooklyn Dodgers (1947–1956)

Stats:

Career batting average: .311
Home runs: 137
Runs batted in (RBIs): 734
6-time All-Star
1-time MVP (1949)

Primary Position: Second Baseman

Unique Record: First African American player to break the MLB color barrier, forever changing the landscape of professional sports.

30. Ryne Sandberg

Team(s): Chicago Cubs (1981–1997, 2004)

Stats:

Career batting average: .285
Home runs: 282
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,061
9-time All-Star
9 Gold Glove Awards

Primary Position: Second Baseman

Unique Record: Ryne Sandberg holds the record for most home runs in a single season by a second baseman (40 home runs in 1990).

The 10 Greatest Third Basemen of All Time

Third base is often a hot corner, where power hitters meet defensive prowess. The greatest third basemen have not only protected one of the most challenging positions on the field but also delivered at the plate with consistent power and clutch performances. Our following picks celebrate those players who have mastered both.

31. Wade Boggs

Team(s): Boston Red Sox (1982–1992), New York Yankees (1993–1997), Tampa Bay Devil Rays (1998–1999)

Stats:

Career batting average: .328
Home runs: 118
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,014
12-time All-Star
5 Gold Glove Awards

Primary Position: Third Baseman

Unique Record: Wade Boggs is one of only 30 players in MLB history to reach 3,000 career hits.

32. George Brett

Team(s): Kansas City Royals (1973–1993)

Stats:

Career batting average: .305
Home runs: 317
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,595
13-time All-Star
3 Gold Glove Awards

Primary Position: Third Baseman

Unique Record: George Brett is one of the only players in MLB history to win a batting title in three different decades (1976, 1980, and 1990).

33. Eddie Mathews

Team(s): Milwaukee/Atlanta Braves (1952–1966), Houston Astros (1967), Detroit Tigers (1967–1968)

Stats:

Career batting average: .271
Home runs: 512
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,453
9-time All-Star
2-time Home Run Leader

Primary Position: Third Baseman

Unique Record: Eddie Mathews was the first player in MLB history to hit 500 home runs and play exclusively as a third baseman.

34. Brooks Robinson

Team(s): Baltimore Orioles (1955–1977)

Stats:

Career batting average: .267
Home runs: 268
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,314
18-time All-Star
16 Gold Glove Awards

Primary Position: Third Baseman

Unique Record: Brooks Robinson holds the record for the most Gold Glove Awards by a third baseman, with 16.

35. Mike Schmidt

Team(s): Philadelphia Phillies (1972–1989)

Stats:

Career batting average: .267
Home runs: 548
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,595
12-time All-Star
10 Gold Glove Awards

Primary Position: Third Baseman

Unique Record: Mike Schmidt is the only third baseman in MLB history to hit over 500 home runs and win 10 Gold Gloves.

36. Chipper Jones

Team(s): Atlanta Braves (1993–2012)

Stats:

Career batting average: .303
Home runs: 468
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,623
8-time All-Star
1 Gold Glove Award

Primary Position: Third Baseman

Unique Record: Chipper Jones is the only switch hitter in MLB history to have a career batting average over .300 and 400+ home runs.

37. Ron Santo

Team(s): Chicago Cubs (1960–1973), Chicago White Sox (1974–1975)

Stats:

Career batting average: .277
Home runs: 342
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,331
9-time All-Star
5 Gold Glove Awards

Primary Position: Third Baseman

Unique Record: Ron Santo is the only third baseman in MLB history to have more than 300 home runs and 1,300 RBIs without receiving a Gold Glove in his first four seasons.

38. Adrian Beltre

Team(s): Los Angeles Dodgers (1998–2004), Seattle Mariners (2005–2010), Texas Rangers (2011–2018), Boston Red Sox (2010)

Stats:

Career batting average: .286
Home runs: 477
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,707
4-time Gold Glove Award
4-time All-Star

Primary Position: Third Baseman

Unique Record: Adrian Beltre is the only player in MLB history to have over 3,000 hits and 450 home runs while playing primarily at third base.

39. Scott Rolen

Team(s): Philadelphia Phillies (1996–2002), St. Louis Cardinals (2002–2007), Toronto Blue Jays (2008–2010), Cincinnati Reds (2010–2012)

Stats:

Career batting average: .281
Home runs: 316
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,287
8 Gold Glove Awards
7-time All-Star

Primary Position: Third Baseman

Unique Record: Scott Rolen is one of only five third basemen in MLB history to win 8 Gold Gloves, setting a high standard for defensive excellence at the hot corner.

40. Paul Molitor

Team(s): Milwaukee Brewers (1978–1992), Toronto Blue Jays (1993–1995), Minnesota Twins (1996–1998)

Stats:

Career batting average: .306
Home runs: 234
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,307
3,319 career hits
4-time All-Star

Primary Position: Third Baseman

Unique Record: Paul Molitor is one of only seven players in MLB history to record over 3,000 hits, 500 stolen bases, and 200 home runs.

The 10 Greatest Shortstops of All Time

Shortstop is often regarded as the most challenging and crucial position on the baseball field, requiring a unique blend of athleticism, defensive skills, and offensive capability. The following players on this list not only dominated defensively but also made significant contributions with the bat.

41. Ernie Banks

Team(s): Chicago Cubs (1953–1971)

Stats:

Career batting average: .274
Home runs: 512
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,636
14-time All-Star
2-time MVP

Primary Position: Shortstop

Unique Record: Ernie Banks was the first shortstop in MLB history to hit over 500 home runs.

42. Lou Boudreau

Team(s): Cleveland Indians (1938–1950), Boston Red Sox (1951–1952), Chicago Cubs (1952–1953)

Stats:

Career batting average: .295
Home runs: 68
Runs batted in (RBIs): 512
4-time All-Star
1-time MVP

Primary Position: Shortstop

Unique Record: Lou Boudreau is the only player to win the American League MVP award while also serving as a player-manager.

43. Joe Cronin

Team(s): Boston Red Sox (1926–1934), Washington Senators (1935–1945)

Stats:

Career batting average: .301
Home runs: 170
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,284
7-time All-Star
2-time All-MLB

Primary Position: Shortstop

Unique Record: Joe Cronin is one of the few shortstops in history to play over 2,000 games at the position while maintaining a career batting average of over .300.

44. George Davis

Team(s): Chicago White Sox (1891–1900), New York Giants (1900–1909), New York Yankees (1910)

Stats:

Career batting average: .295
Home runs: 46
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,181
2-time All-Star (when the term was first used, though he played in an era without the official All-Star game)
2,660 career hits

Primary Position: Shortstop

Unique Record: George Davis is one of only a few players to have played in both the 19th and 20th centuries, marking a bridge between the two baseball eras.

45. Derek Jeter

Team(s): New York Yankees (1995–2014)

Stats:

Career batting average: .310
Home runs: 260
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,311
14-time All-Star
5-time World Series Champion

Primary Position: Shortstop

Unique Record: Derek Jeter is the only player in MLB history to have recorded 3,000 hits, 200 home runs, and 1,000 RBIs as a shortstop.

46. Barry Larkin

Team(s): Cincinnati Reds (1986–2004)

Stats:

Career batting average: .295
Home runs: 198
Runs batted in (RBIs): 960
12-time All-Star
9-time Gold Glove Award Winner

Primary Position: Shortstop

Unique Record: Barry Larkin is one of the few shortstops in MLB history to win an MVP award (1995) and a World Series title (1990).

47. Cal Ripken Jr.

Team(s): Baltimore Orioles (1981–2001)

Stats:

Career batting average: .276
Home runs: 431
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,695
19-time All-Star
2-time American League MVP (1983, 1991)

Primary Position: Shortstop

Unique Record: Cal Ripken Jr. holds the MLB record for consecutive games played with 2,632, a streak that lasted from 1982 to 1998.

48. Alex Rodriguez

Team(s): Seattle Mariners (1994–2000), Texas Rangers (2001–2003), New York Yankees (2004–2016)

Stats:

Career batting average: .295
Home runs: 696
Runs batted in (RBIs): 2,086
14-time All-Star
3-time American League MVP (2003, 2005, 2007)

Primary Position: Shortstop (later transitioned to third base)

Unique Record: Alex Rodriguez is the youngest player in MLB history to reach 500 home runs, accomplishing the feat at just 29 years old.

49. Ozzie Smith

Team(s): San Diego Padres (1978–1981), St. Louis Cardinals (1982–1996)

Stats:

Career batting average: .262
Home runs: 28
Runs batted in (RBIs): 793
15-time All-Star
13-time Gold Glove Award Winner

Primary Position: Shortstop

Unique Record: Ozzie Smith holds the record for most Gold Glove Awards for a shortstop with 13.

50. Honus Wagner

Team(s): Pittsburgh Pirates (1897–1917)

Stats:

Career batting average: .329
Home runs: 101
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,732
8-time National League batting champion
3-time World Series Champion

Primary Position: Shortstop

Unique Record: Honus Wagner is one of the five players featured in the famous “T206” baseball card set, with his card being one of the most valuable and sought-after in the world.

10 Greatest Left Fielders of All Time

Left fielders have often been some of the most versatile players on the field, combining strong bat power, fielding ability, and speed. The following are our picks for the top 10 left fielders in MLB history, players who not only shone with their exceptional hitting but also made a lasting impact on the field, contributing to their teams’ success in unique ways.

51. Barry Bonds

Team(s): Pittsburgh Pirates (1986–1992), San Francisco Giants (1993–2007)

Stats:

Career batting average: .298
Home runs: 762 (MLB record)
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,996
14-time All-Star
7-time National League MVP

Primary Position: Left Fielder

Unique Record: Barry Bonds holds the MLB record for career home runs with 762, as well as the single-season home run record with 73 in 2001.

52. Lou Brock

Team(s): Chicago Cubs (1961–1964), St. Louis Cardinals (1964–1979)

Stats:

Career batting average: .293
Home runs: 149
Runs batted in (RBIs): 802
6-time All-Star
2-time World Series Champion (1964, 1967)

Primary Position: Left Fielder

Unique Record: Lou Brock set the MLB record for stolen bases at the time, finishing his career with 938 steals.

53. Rickey Henderson

Team(s): Oakland Athletics (1979–1984, 1989–1993), New York Yankees (1985–1989, 2004), Toronto Blue Jays (1993–1995), San Diego Padres (1996), Anaheim Angels (1997), and others

Stats:

Career batting average: .279
Home runs: 297
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,115
10-time All-Star
1-time World Series Champion (1993)

Primary Position: Left Fielder

Unique Record: Rickey Henderson holds the MLB record for career stolen bases with 1,406, as well as the most career runs scored (2,295).

54. Al Simmons

Team(s): Philadelphia Athletics (1924–1930, 1933–1940), Chicago White Sox (1933), Milwaukee Braves (1944), Detroit Tigers (1944–1945)

Stats:

Career batting average: .334
Home runs: 307
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,828
3-time All-Star
1-time World Series Champion (1930)

Primary Position: Left Fielder

Unique Record: Al Simmons finished his career with a remarkable .334 batting average and over 1,800 RBIs, ranking among the top hitters of his era.

55. Willie Stargell

Team(s): Pittsburgh Pirates (1962–1982)

Stats:

Career batting average: .264
Home runs: 475
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,540
7-time All-Star
1-time World Series Champion (1979)

Primary Position: Left Fielder

Unique Record: Willie Stargell became the first player to win both the National League MVP and the World Series MVP in the same year (1979).

56. Carl Yastrzemski

Team(s): Boston Red Sox (1961–1983)

Stats:

Career batting average: .285
Home runs: 452
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,844
18-time All-Star
3-time Gold Glove winner

Primary Position: Left Fielder

Unique Record: Carl Yastrzemski is one of the few players to have earned a Triple Crown, leading the American League in batting average, home runs, and RBIs in 1967.

57. Ed Delahanty

Team(s): Philadelphia Phillies (1888–1899), Cleveland Spiders (1899)

Stats:

Career batting average: .346
Home runs: 101
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,464
5-time batting champion
1-time home run leader (1899)

Primary Position: Left Fielder

Unique Record: Ed Delahanty was one of the first players in MLB history to achieve a career batting average above .340 and was one of the premier hitters of his time.

58. Joe Jackson

Team(s): Chicago White Sox (1908–1920)

Stats:

Career batting average: .356
Home runs: 54
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,114
3-time batting champion
1-time World Series Champion (1917)

Primary Position: Left Fielder

Unique Record: Joe Jackson’s .356 career batting average ranks among the highest in Major League Baseball history, and he was known for his remarkable contact hitting and ability to avoid strikeouts.

59. Jim Rice

Team(s): Boston Red Sox (1974–1989)

Stats:

Career batting average: .298
Home runs: 382
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,451
8-time All-Star
3-time Silver Slugger Award winner

Primary Position: Left Fielder

Unique Record: Jim Rice led the American League in home runs and RBIs in 1978 and became one of the most feared power hitters of the late 1970s and 1980s.

60. Goose Goslin

Team(s): Washington Senators (1921–1930), Detroit Tigers (1931–1933), St. Louis Browns (1934), Boston Red Sox (1935)

Stats:

Career batting average: .316
Home runs: 248
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,609
1-time All-Star
1-time World Series Champion (1924)

Primary Position: Left Fielder

Unique Record: Goose Goslin was a key contributor to the Washington Senators’ 1924 World Series championship, playing a crucial role in their success with his bat.

The 10 Greatest Center Fielders of All Time

Center fielders are often considered the heart of a team’s defense, and the greatest to ever play the position combined with exceptional range, speed, and a strong bat. From legends who changed the game with their all-around ability to players who revolutionized the position, the following are our picks for the top 10 center fielders in baseball history.

61. Ty Cobb

Team(s): Detroit Tigers (1905–1926), Philadelphia Athletics (1927–1928)

Stats:

Career batting average: .366 (highest in MLB history)
Home runs: 117
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,938
12-time American League batting champion
4-time stolen base leader

Primary Position: Center Fielder

Unique Record: Ty Cobb holds the highest career batting average in MLB history at .366, a record that still stands to this day.

62. Joe DiMaggio

Team(s): New York Yankees (1936–1951)

Stats:

Career batting average: .325
Home runs: 361
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,537
3-time MVP
9-time World Series Champion

Primary Position: Center Fielder

Unique Record: Joe DiMaggio’s 56-game hitting streak remains an unbroken MLB record, a feat that has captivated fans for decades.

63. Ken Griffey Jr.

Team(s): Seattle Mariners (1989–1999, 2009–2010), Cincinnati Reds (2000–2008)

Stats:

Career batting average: .284
Home runs: 630
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,836
13-time All-Star
10-time Gold Glove Award winner

Primary Position: Center Fielder

Unique Record: Ken Griffey Jr. is tied for 7th on the all-time home run list with 630, and he is the only player in MLB history to hit at least 600 home runs and win 10 Gold Gloves.

64. Mickey Mantle

Team(s): New York Yankees (1951–1968)

Stats:

Career batting average: .298
Home runs: 536
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,509
3-time American League MVP
7-time World Series Champion

Primary Position: Center Fielder

Unique Record: Mickey Mantle hit the longest home run in Yankee Stadium history, a 565-foot blast that remains an iconic moment in baseball lore.

65. Willie Mays

Team(s): New York/San Francisco Giants (1951–1972), New York Mets (1972–1973)

Stats:

Career batting average: .302
Home runs: 660
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,903
24-time All-Star
12-time Gold Glove Award winner

Primary Position: Center Fielder

Unique Record: Willie Mays is one of only five players in MLB history to hit over 600 home runs and steal over 300 bases, a testament to his incredible all-around ability.

66. Duke Snider

Team(s): Brooklyn/Los Angeles Dodgers (1947–1962), New York Mets (1963–1964)

Stats:

Career batting average: .295
Home runs: 407
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,333
6-time All-Star
2-time World Series Champion

Primary Position: Center Fielder

Unique Record: Duke Snider was the first player to hit four home runs in a single World Series game, a record that still stands.

67. Tris Speaker

Team(s): Boston Red Sox (1907–1915), Cleveland Indians (1916–1926), Washington Senators (1927)

Stats:

Career batting average: .345
Home runs: 117
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,529
8-time All-Star (in the era before All-Star games)
5-time Gold Glove Award winner (posthumous recognition)

Primary Position: Center Fielder

Unique Record: Tris Speaker holds the MLB record for the most career doubles by a center fielder with 792, a testament to his exceptional hitting ability.

68. Kirby Puckett

Team(s): Minnesota Twins (1984–1995)

Stats:

Career batting average: .318
Home runs: 207
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,085
6-time All-Star
2-time World Series Champion

Primary Position: Center Fielder

Unique Record: Kirby Puckett is one of only a few players to retire with a career batting average above .300 and a World Series MVP award.

69. Richie Ashburn

Team(s): Philadelphia Phillies (1948–1959), Chicago Cubs (1960)

Stats:

Career batting average: .308
Home runs: 29
Runs batted in (RBIs): 682
5-time All-Star
7-time Gold Glove Award winner

Primary Position: Center Fielder

Unique Record: Richie Ashburn led the National League in batting average in 1955 and was among the league leaders in hits and on-base percentage multiple times.

70. Andre Dawson

Team(s): Montreal Expos (1976–1986), Chicago Cubs (1987–1992), Florida Marlins (1993–1995), Boston Red Sox (1996)

Stats:

Career batting average: .279
Home runs: 438
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,591
8-time All-Star
4-time Gold Glove Award winner

Primary Position: Center Fielder

Unique Record: Andre Dawson is the only player in MLB history to win a Gold Glove Award and an MVP award in the same season (1987).

The 10 Greatest Right Fielders of All Time

Right field is often a position that combines power hitting with a strong arm and defensive awareness. From home run legends to all-time great defensive players, the following 10 best right fielders have left an indelible mark on the game.

71. Hank Aaron

Team(s): Milwaukee/Atlanta Braves (1954–1974), Milwaukee Brewers (1975–1976)

Stats:

Career batting average: .305
Home runs: 755 (held the record for most home runs until 2007)
Runs batted in (RBIs): 2,297 (all-time leader)
25-time All-Star
1957 National League MVP

Primary Position: Right Fielder

Unique Record: Hank Aaron holds the all-time MLB record for RBIs with 2,297 and is second in career home runs with 755 (behind Barry Bonds).

72. Roberto Clemente

Team(s): Pittsburgh Pirates (1955–1972)

Stats:

Career batting average: .317
Home runs: 240
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,305
12-time Gold Glove Award winner
1966 National League MVP

Primary Position: Right Fielder

Unique Record: Roberto Clemente became the first Latin American player to reach 3,000 hits and was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

73. Reggie Jackson

Team(s): Oakland Athletics (1967–1975), Baltimore Orioles (1976), New York Yankees (1977–1981), California Angels (1982–1986), Oakland Athletics (1987–1988)

Stats:

Career batting average: .262
Home runs: 563
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,702
14-time All-Star
5-time World Series champion (1972, 1973, 1974 with the Athletics; 1977, 1978 with the Yankees)

Primary Position: Right Fielder

Unique Record: Reggie Jackson is famously known as “Mr. October” for his postseason heroics, particularly his performance in the 1977 World Series where he hit three home runs in a single game.

74. Al Kaline

Team(s): Detroit Tigers (1953–1974)

Stats:

Career batting average: .297
Home runs: 399
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,582
18-time All-Star
1955 American League Batting Champion

Primary Position: Right Fielder

Unique Record: Al Kaline was the youngest player to ever win a Gold Glove Award, achieving this honor at the age of 20.

75. Mel Ott

Team(s): New York Giants (1926–1947)

Stats:

Career batting average: .304
Home runs: 511
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,860
12-time All-Star
1,859 career walks (led the National League six times in this category)

Primary Position: Right Fielder

Unique Record: Mel Ott was the first National League player to hit 500 career home runs, a milestone that cemented his status as a trailblazer in power hitting.

76. Frank Robinson

Team(s): Cincinnati Reds (1956–1965), Baltimore Orioles (1966–1971), Los Angeles Dodgers (1972), California Angels (1973–1974), Cleveland Indians (1974–1976)

Stats:

Career batting average: .294
Home runs: 586
Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,812
14-time All-Star
Triple Crown Winner (1966)

Primary Position: Right Fielder

Unique Record: Frank Robinson is the only player in MLB history to win the MVP Award in both the American and National Leagues.

77. Babe Ruth

Team(s): Boston Red Sox (1914–1919), New York Yankees (1920–1934), Boston Braves (1935)

Stats:

Career batting average: .342
Home runs: 714
Runs batted in (RBIs): 2,214
Slugging percentage: .690 (all-time record)
12-time home run leader

Primary Position: Right Fielder (also excelled as a Pitcher early in his career)

Unique Record: Babe Ruth’s career slugging percentage of .690 remains the highest in MLB history.

78. Ichiro Suzuki

Team(s): Orix BlueWave (NPB, 1992–2000), Seattle Mariners (2001–2012, 2018–2019), New York Yankees (2012–2014), Miami Marlins (2015–2017)

Stats:

MLB Hits: 3,089
NPB Hits: 1,278
Combined Professional Hits: 4,367 (World Record)
Career batting average (MLB): .311
10-time MLB All-Star

Primary Position: Right Fielder

Unique Record: Ichiro holds the single-season hits record in MLB, with 262 hits in 2004, a feat unmatched in baseball history.

79. Tony Gwynn

Team(s): San Diego Padres (1982–2001)

Stats:

Career Hits: 3,141
Career Batting Average: .338
15-time All-Star
8-time National League batting champion
5-time Gold Glove winner

Primary Position: Right Fielder

Unique Record: Tony Gwynn holds the modern-era record for the most batting titles in the National League, with eight to his name.

80. Sam Crawford

Team(s): Cincinnati Reds (1899–1902), Detroit Tigers (1903–1917)

Stats:

Career Hits: 2,961
Career Batting Average: .309
Career Triples: 309 (MLB Record)
3-time American League RBI leader

Primary Position: Right Fielder

Unique Record: Sam Crawford holds the all-time MLB record for career triples with 309, a mark that has stood for over a century.

The 5 Greatest Designated Hitters of All Time

The role of the designated hitter (DH) revolutionized baseball, allowing teams to utilize powerhouse hitters without requiring them to play defense. These players excelled in delivering clutch hits, amassing legendary stats, and changing the game’s dynamics with their offensive prowess.

81. Edgar Martinez

Team(s): Seattle Mariners (1987–2004)

Stats:

Career Hits: 2,247
Career Batting Average: .312
Career Home Runs: 309
Career RBIs: 1,261
7-time All-Star and 5-time Silver Slugger

Primary Position: Designated Hitter / Third Baseman

Unique Record: One of only 11 players in MLB history to have at least 300 home runs, 500 doubles, and a .300+ career batting average.

82. David Ortiz

Team(s): Minnesota Twins (1997–2002), Boston Red Sox (2003–2016)

Stats:

Career Hits: 2,472
Career Batting Average: .286
Career Home Runs: 541
Career RBIs: 1,768
10-time All-Star and 7-time Silver Slugger

Primary Position: Designated Hitter / First Baseman

Unique Record: Holds the MLB record for most career home runs, RBIs, and hits by a designated hitter.

83. Harold Baines

Team(s): Chicago White Sox (1980–1989, 1996–1997, 2000–2001), Texas Rangers (1989–1990), Oakland Athletics (1990–1992), Baltimore Orioles (1993–1995, 1997–1999), Cleveland Indians (1999)

Stats:

Career Hits: 2,866
Career Batting Average: .289
Career Home Runs: 384
Career RBIs: 1,628
6-time All-Star

Primary Position: Designated Hitter / Right Fielder

Unique Record: One of the most consistent hitters of his era, ranking high in hits and RBIs among designated hitters.

84. Paul Molitor

Team(s): Milwaukee Brewers (1978–1992), Toronto Blue Jays (1993–1995), Minnesota Twins (1996–1998)

Stats:

Career Hits: 3,319
Career Batting Average: .306
Career Home Runs: 234
Career RBIs: 1,307
7-time All-Star

Primary Position: Designated Hitter / Third Baseman

Unique Record: One of only five players in MLB history to have a 3,000-hit career while also playing a significant portion of games as a designated hitter.

85. Frank Thomas

Team(s): Chicago White Sox (1990–2005), Oakland Athletics (2006, 2008), Toronto Blue Jays (2007–2008)

Stats:

Career Hits: 2,468
Career Batting Average: .301
Career Home Runs: 521
Career RBIs: 1,704
2-time AL MVP (1993, 1994)

Primary Position: Designated Hitter / First Baseman

Unique Record: The first player in MLB history to achieve seven consecutive seasons (1991–1997) with a .300+ batting average, 20+ home runs, 100+ RBIs, and 100+ walks.

The 10 Greatest Starting Pitchers of All Time

Starting pitchers are the cornerstone of any great baseball team, setting the tone for the game and often carrying the team on their shoulders. From legendary fastballs to unhittable curveballs, the following picks celebrate the most dominant and iconic starting pitchers in baseball history, whose performances have left a lasting legacy on the mound.

86. Grover Cleveland Alexander

Team(s): Philadelphia Phillies (1911–1917, 1938–1940), Chicago Cubs (1918–1926), St. Louis Cardinals (1926–1930)

Stats:

Career Wins: 373
Career ERA: 2.56
Career Strikeouts: 2,198
Career Shutouts: 90
2-time NL MVP (1915, 1924)