Top 20 Second Basemen in MLB History

10 thru 6

10. Craig Biggio

Key Team: Houston Astros
Career Highlights: 3,060 hits, 7-time All-Star, 4 Gold Gloves (at 2B), Hall of Famer

Summary:
Craig Biggio is one of the most versatile players in MLB history, starting as a catcher, then moving to second base (where he starred), and later shifting to the outfield in his late career. Still, his best work came at the keystone, where his quick footwork, strong arm, and fearless demeanor (he was famously adept at getting hit by pitches) made him a fan favorite. Offensively, Biggio’s 3,060 hits put him in rare company. Though he wasn’t a classic slugger, he produced plenty of doubles (he led the NL three times) and delivered consistent pop from the right side. His loyalty to Houston, combined with the depth of his skill set, makes him a no-doubt Hall of Famer and a mainstay in any list of great second basemen.

9. Roberto Alomar

Key Teams: San Diego Padres, Toronto Blue Jays, Baltimore Orioles, Cleveland Indians, New York Mets
Career Highlights: 12-time All-Star, 10 Gold Gloves, 4 Silver Sluggers, 2 World Series titles (1992, 1993)

Summary:
When it comes to pure defensive artistry at second base, Roberto Alomar is often the first name that comes to mind. His reflexes, soft hands, and range were unparalleled in the 1990s, leading to 10 Gold Glove Awards—the most ever by a second baseman. But Alomar was far from a glove-only player; at his peak, he was a switch-hitting force who could bat .300+, rack up 15–20 homers, and swipe 30 or more bases. His penchant for timely hits and big plays on the postseason stage helped Toronto capture back-to-back World Series titles in 1992 and 1993. Though his career had some ups and downs after leaving Cleveland, Alomar’s Hall of Fame peak stands among the best overall packages to ever grace second base.

8. Rod Carew

Key Teams: Minnesota Twins, California Angels
Career Highlights: 7 batting titles, AL MVP (1977), 18-time All-Star, 3,053 hits

Summary:
Rod Carew primarily played first base later in his career, but he spent the first half of his MLB tenure (and the majority of his prime) as a second baseman. A magician with the bat, Carew used lightning-quick hands and exceptional bat control to rack up seven AL batting titles—often flirting with .350 or higher. He’s one of the greatest pure contact hitters in the sport’s history, finishing with a career .328 average and over 3,000 hits. While not a power hitter, Carew could drive balls into the gaps, racking up doubles and triples. Defensively, he was solid—though overshadowed by his hitting prowess. His graceful swing, calm demeanor, and relentless pursuit of hits place him high among the best ever to play second.

7. Charlie Gehringer

Key Team: Detroit Tigers
Career Highlights: AL MVP (1937), World Series champion (1935), .320 career average, Hall of Fame

Summary:
Known as “The Mechanical Man,” Charlie Gehringer was so consistent at the plate and in the field that he seemingly operated like clockwork. Across 19 seasons with the Tigers, Gehringer batted .320, led the AL in hits and runs scored multiple times, and claimed the MVP award in 1937. His defense at second base was excellent, marked by a sure glove and precise footwork. He played a pivotal role in guiding Detroit to consecutive World Series appearances in 1934 and 1935, winning it all in ’35. Though he wasn’t a flashy character, Gehringer’s remarkable consistency, quiet leadership, and Hall of Fame production stand the test of time.

6. José Altuve

Key Team: Houston Astros
Career Highlights: AL MVP (2017), 6 Silver Sluggers, 8-time All-Star (as of 2023), multiple 200-hit seasons, 2 World Series titles (2017, 2022)

Summary:
Standing at just 5-foot-6, José Altuve has used his quick hands, disciplined approach, and surprising pop to become one of the most complete second basemen in the modern game. He regularly contends for batting titles, leading the league in hits four times and eclipsing 200 hits in multiple seasons. Altuve also brings 20+ home run power and 30+ stolen base speed—an impressive combination for any position, let alone a middle infielder of his stature. Defensively, he’s improved over the years, showcasing good range and an accurate arm. In postseason action, Altuve has repeatedly come up big, ranking among the leaders in career postseason home runs. Focusing purely on on-field performance, Altuve’s blend of contact, power, and speed is nearly unmatched in today’s game.