Top 20 Second Basemen in MLB History

Below is a countdown of the top 20 second basemen of all time—strictly focusing on on-field performance and ignoring any off-field controversies. As before, we’ll lean slightly toward the belief that modern players often have advantages (training, competition level, etc.) but still give full respect to the legends of baseball history. Each write-up highlights each player’s impact, skill set, and why they stand among the all-time greats. 20 thru 11 20. Bill Mazeroski Key Team: Pittsburgh Pirates Career Highlights: 10-time All-Star, 8 Gold Gloves, Hall of Fame, legendary 1960 World Series walk-off HR Summary: Widely considered one of the greatest defensive second basemen in baseball history, Bill Mazeroski made a name for himself with quick hands, superb footwork around the bag, and remarkable range. His eight Gold Gloves speak to his consistency in the field, where he was adept at turning double plays with near-flawless technique. Although a relatively light hitter, “Maz” forever etched himself into baseball lore with his iconic walk-off home run in Game 7 of the 1960 World Series, lifting the Pirates to a championship over the heavily favored Yankees. The combination of top-tier defense and one of the most dramatic moments in postseason history secures his spot on this list. 19. Tony Lazzeri Key Teams: New York Yankees, Chicago Cubs, Brooklyn Dodgers Career Highlights: 5-time World Series champion with Yankees, 7-time 100+ RBI seasons Summary: A key piece of the legendary 1920s and ’30s Yankees (often called “Murderers’ Row”), Tony Lazzeri was overshadowed by teammates like Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig—but his accomplishments hold up in their own right. He drove in 100 or more runs seven times, showcasing both a solid batting average and gap-to-gap power. Defensively, he had good range and sure hands, crucial for turning double plays with the famously loaded Yankees infield. Lazzeri was also an adept baserunner in an era when steals weren’t as prominent as in previous decades. Though he’s sometimes forgotten alongside bigger Yankee names, his consistent run production and championship pedigree make him one of the best second basemen of the early live-ball era. 18. Billy Herman Key Teams: Chicago Cubs, Brooklyn Dodgers, Boston Braves, Pittsburgh Pirates Career Highlights: 10-time All-Star, led NL in putouts by a 2B seven times Summary: Billy Herman was a quintessential 1930s star at second base, combining superb defensive instincts with a .304 career batting average. He was a frequent All-Star who excelled at making contact—striking out very rarely—and was especially adept at hitting doubles, putting pressure on pitchers. In the field, Herman led the National League in putouts by a second baseman a remarkable seven times, a testament to his range and reliability. He spent the prime of his career as a stalwart for the Chicago Cubs, helping lead them to multiple pennants. His keen baseball IQ and steady excellence made him a favorite of managers and fans alike. 17. Dustin Pedroia Key Team: Boston Red Sox Career Highlights: AL MVP (2008), Rookie of the Year (2007), 4 Gold Gloves, 2 World Series titles (2007, 2013) Summary: Despite being undersized, Dustin Pedroia played with a tenacity and competitive fire that made him a cornerstone of the Red Sox during their successful runs in the late 2000s and early 2010s. Known for his quick, compact swing, Pedroia routinely hit above .300 and displayed surprising pop for his stature, notching several 15–20 homer seasons. Defensively, his range and instincts earned him four Gold Gloves, showcasing his leadership in the middle infield. Injuries cut his career short, but at his peak, Pedroia was among the best two-way second basemen in the game. His MVP win in 2008 confirmed that pure grit, combined with a well-rounded skill set, can make for an elite performer. 16. Robinson Cano Key Teams: New York Yankees, Seattle Mariners, New York Mets, San Diego Padres Career Highlights: Multiple Silver Slugger Awards, 8-time All-Star, 2 Gold Gloves Summary: When focusing strictly on performance, Robinson Cano’s smooth swing and effortless defense stand out among modern second basemen. During his prime, he was a perennial .300 hitter with 20–30 home run power and a knack for driving in runs in clutch spots. Defensively, Cano displayed a calm, almost leisurely style that belied his strong arm and swift turn on double plays. Though his later career featured a decline in production (and some off-field controversies we’re ignoring), Cano’s peak years with the Yankees and Mariners showed a second baseman who could bat in the heart of any order. His fluid game and consistent production make him one of the top talents of his generation. 15. Bobby Grich Key Teams: Baltimore Orioles, California Angels Career Highlights: 6-time All-Star, 4 Gold Gloves, strong blend of power and plate discipline Summary: Although somewhat overlooked in mainstream discussions, Bobby Grich excelled in key aspects: getting on base, hitting for power, and playing excellent defense. He posted multiple seasons of 20+ home runs—an impressive feat for a second baseman in the 1970s and early 1980s—and walked nearly as often as he struck out, leading to a solid on-base percentage. In the field, Grich earned four Gold Gloves, showcasing quick reflexes and a strong throwing arm. He also had a knack for stepping up in high-leverage situations, contributing to competitive Baltimore and California teams. For many modern analysts, Grich embodies the “underrated star” who excelled in well-rounded fashion without garnering widespread superstar hype. 14. Frankie Frisch Key Teams: New York Giants, St. Louis Cardinals Career Highlights: 4 World Series titles, NL MVP (1931), player-manager Summary: Nicknamed “The Fordham Flash,” Frankie Frisch was a switch-hitting sparkplug for two legendary franchises: John McGraw’s New York Giants and the Gashouse Gang St. Louis Cardinals. Frisch excelled as both a speedy baserunner and a defensive stalwart, while also regularly hitting over .300. During the 1930s, he served as a player-manager, guiding the Cardinals to a World Series triumph. Frisch’s leadership, versatility, and fiery attitude helped define a Cardinals era known for its scrappy, intense style of play. Though overshadowed by bigger sluggers of his time, Frisch’s all-around consistency and championship pedigree secure him a well-earned place among the great second basemen. 13. Jeff Kent Key Teams: New York Mets, Cleveland Indians, San Francisco Giants, Houston Astros, Los Angeles Dodgers Career Highlights: NL MVP (2000), most HR all-time by a second baseman (377), 5-time All-Star Summary: Jeff Kent is best known for being one of the most powerful hitting second basemen ever. He set the record for most career home runs by a player at the position (377), consistently launching 20–30 homers in a season—often while driving in 100+ runs. Kent won the NL MVP in 2000 with the San Francisco Giants, edging out teammate Barry Bonds thanks to a .334 average, 33 home runs, and 125 RBIs. Defensively, he was solid if not spectacular, with a reliable glove but limited range compared to some of the glove-first second basemen on this list. Still, Kent’s offensive production at a premium defensive position is undeniably elite, placing him among the best ever at second base. 12. Chase Utley Key Teams: Philadelphia Phillies, Los Angeles Dodgers Career Highlights: 6-time All-Star, 4 Silver Sluggers, World Series champion (2008) Summary: Chase Utley combined hard-nosed, scrappy play with legitimate middle-of-the-order offensive firepower. During his prime with the Phillies, Utley consistently batted .280–.300, posted 20–30 home run seasons, and displayed outstanding baserunning instincts—often ranking among the league leaders in steals and extra-base hits for second basemen. He formed a dynamic core with Ryan Howard and Jimmy Rollins, helping Philadelphia claim the 2008 World Series title. Defensively, Utley was adept at turning double plays with a quick release and fearless pivot. His high baseball IQ, intense approach to the game, and long stretch of top-tier production make him a favorite among modern fans and analysts alike. 11. Ryne Sandberg Key Team: Chicago Cubs Career Highlights: NL MVP (1984), 10-time All-Star, 9 Gold Gloves, Hall of Fame Summary: “Ryno” became the face of the Chicago Cubs in the 1980s and early ’90s, bringing a perfect combination of defense, power, and speed to second base. Sandberg famously mashed 40 homers in 1990—astounding for a middle infielder at that time—yet he was also a slick fielder, leading the league in fielding percentage at second multiple times. His MVP season of 1984 included a .314 average, 19 homers, and 32 steals, demonstrating his well-rounded abilities. Sandberg’s consistent excellence earned him nine consecutive Gold Gloves and a spot in Cooperstown. His classic Wrigley Field highlights—especially the “Sandberg Game” in 1984—still resonate with Cubs fans today. 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. 5. Jackie Robinson Key Team: Brooklyn Dodgers Career Highlights: Breaking MLB’s color barrier (1947), NL MVP (1949), Rookie of the Year (1947), 6-time All-Star, World Series champion (1955) Summary: Beyond his massive cultural and historical impact, Jackie Robinson was also an elite second baseman during his 10-year career with the Brooklyn Dodgers. His speed, baseball IQ, and bat-to-ball skills transformed the top of the Dodgers’ lineup, where he routinely hit .300 or better, led the league in steals, and sparked rallies with daring baserunning. Defensively, Robinson’s athleticism and lightning reflexes made him a standout—though he also played multiple positions when needed. He won the NL MVP in 1949 with a .342 average, 37 steals, and 124 RBIs, demonstrating his all-around brilliance. While no statistic can fully capture the importance of his legacy, his performance on the field alone still warrants a spot among the greatest second basemen in history. 4. Nap Lajoie Key Teams: Philadelphia Phillies, Philadelphia Athletics, Cleveland Naps/Indians Career Highlights: 5 batting titles, .338 career average, top-tier defensive reputation Summary: Nap Lajoie dominated the game in the early 1900s, earning multiple batting titles and finishing his career with a robust .338 average. So revered was he in Cleveland that the team was nicknamed the “Naps” in his honor. He boasted exceptional bat control and power for the dead-ball era, routinely finishing among league leaders in hits, doubles, and RBIs. Defensively, Lajoie was considered pioneering for how well he played second base, setting a standard for quick footwork and reliable hands. His combination of high-average hitting, run production, and defensive prowess made him arguably the best all-around second baseman of his day—a claim further supported by his place among the early legends enshrined in Cooperstown. 3. Eddie Collins Key Teams: Philadelphia Athletics, Chicago White Sox Career Highlights: 4 World Series titles (3 with A’s, 1 with White Sox), .333 career average, over 3,300 hits Summary: Eddie Collins was a superstar during the Dead Ball era and into the 1920s, excelling with his blend of contact hitting, speed, and defensive acumen. Over a 25-year career, Collins racked up more than 3,300 hits, batted .333, and stole nearly 750 bases. His excellent plate discipline led to high on-base percentages season after season. In the field, Collins was known for his quickness, smooth glove work, and leadership at second base, helping Connie Mack’s Philadelphia A’s and later the Chicago White Sox reach multiple World Series (winning four). Though overshadowed in modern times, his dominance relative to his era cements him among the top three or four second basemen who ever played. 2. Joe Morgan Key Teams: Houston Colt .45s/Astros, Cincinnati Reds, Philadelphia Phillies Career Highlights: 2-time NL MVP (1975, 1976), 5 Gold Gloves, 10-time All-Star, 2 World Series titles (1975, 1976) Summary: Joe Morgan was the heartbeat of Cincinnati’s “Big Red Machine” in the mid-1970s, combining exceptional on-base skills, base-stealing speed, power, and defensive excellence. As a small but dynamic player, Morgan repeatedly posted .400+ on-base percentages and 60+ stolen bases, while also clubbing enough homers to keep pitchers honest. Defensively, he was top-notch at turning double plays, complemented by a reliable glove. His back-to-back MVP awards in 1975 and 1976 coincide with the Reds’ consecutive World Series championships, showcasing how vital he was to that powerhouse lineup. Morgan’s all-around game, from the batter’s box to the basepaths and the field, ranks among the best in second-base history. 1. Rogers Hornsby Key Teams: St. Louis Cardinals, New York Giants, Boston Braves, Chicago Cubs, St. Louis Browns Career Highlights: 2 Triple Crowns, 7 batting titles, .358 career average (highest among right-handed hitters), 2 MVPs Summary: Rogers Hornsby is, quite simply, one of the greatest hitters in baseball history, regardless of position. His career .358 batting average—best ever among right-handed batters—pairs with extraordinary power (he led the league in home runs twice and RBI four times) to paint the picture of an offensive juggernaut. During the 1920s, Hornsby rattled off five consecutive seasons batting .400 or better, an unprecedented feat for any right-hander. He claimed the Triple Crown twice and remains the only right-handed hitter in MLB history to record three .400 seasons. Defensively, he was a solid, if not spectacular, second baseman. Ultimately, his prime as a hitter was so absurdly dominant that it outshines all other contenders at the position. For pure on-field performance, especially at the plate, no second baseman has matched Rogers Hornsby’s pinnacle.