Baseball is one of America’s favorite pastimes and has been for generations. It’s no wonder, then, that some of the greatest baseball players of all time have become household names. From Babe Ruth to Derek Jeter, these 10 players have made a lasting impression on the game. Here’s a look at the top 10 most popular baseball players of all time.
1. Babe Ruth
Babe Ruth, also known as the “Sultan of Swat” and “The Bambino,” is widely considered the greatest baseball player of all time. A pitcher and outfielder, Ruth had an impressive career with the Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, and Boston Braves. He was a seven-time World Series champion, twelve-time All-Star, and holds the record for most home runs in a single season (60). He’s widely credited with popularizing the “power hitter” style of baseball, and helped make baseball America’s national pastime.
2. Hank Aaron
Hank Aaron is another legendary baseball player. A right fielder, Aaron played 23 seasons in the Major Leagues, mostly with the Milwaukee/Atlanta Braves. He was a twenty-five time All-Star, three-time Gold Glove winner, and holds the record for most career home runs (755). He’s also the only player in Major League history to hit 30 or more home runs in fifteen consecutive seasons.
3. Derek Jeter
Derek Jeter is a living legend. A shortstop for the New York Yankees, Jeter is one of the most decorated players in baseball history. He’s a fourteen-time All-Star, five-time World Series champion, and holds the record for most runs scored in a single season (127). He’s also a five-time Gold Glove winner and the all-time hits leader for the Yankees.
4. Willie Mays
Willie Mays is one of the most beloved players in baseball history. A center fielder, Mays played 22 seasons in the majors, primarily with the New York and San Francisco Giants. He was a twenty-four time All-Star, two-time National League MVP, and holds the record for most seasons played in the majors (22). He’s also widely considered one of the greatest defensive players of all time.
5. Ty Cobb
Ty Cobb is one of the most controversial baseball players of all time. A right fielder, Cobb played 22 seasons in the majors, mostly with the Detroit Tigers. He was a twelve-time All-Star, three-time MVP, and holds the record for most batting titles (eleven). He’s also the all-time leader in batting average (.366).
6. Mickey Mantle
Mickey Mantle was another New York Yankees legend. A switch-hitting center fielder, Mantle played eighteen seasons in the majors. He was a sixteen-time All-Star, three-time MVP, and holds the record for most home runs by a switch-hitter (536). He’s also the all-time leader in World Series home runs (18).
7. Lou Gehrig
Lou Gehrig was another Yankees great. A first baseman, Gehrig played seventeen seasons in the majors, all with the Yankees. He was a seven-time All-Star, two-time MVP, and holds the record for most career grand slams (23). He’s also the all-time leader in RBIs (1,995).
8. Ted Williams
Ted Williams was a legendary outfielder for the Boston Red Sox. He played nineteen seasons in the majors, all with the Red Sox. He was a seventeen-time All-Star, two-time MVP, and holds the record for highest on-base percentage (.482). He’s also the all-time leader in batting average (.344).
9. Stan Musial
Stan Musial was a beloved outfielder and first baseman for the St. Louis Cardinals. He played twenty-two seasons in the majors, all with the Cardinals. He was a twenty-four time All-Star, three-time MVP, and holds the record for most All-Star game selections (24). He’s also the all-time leader in RBIs (1,951).
10. Roberto Clemente
Roberto Clemente was a beloved outfielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates. He played eighteen seasons in the majors, all with the Pirates. He was a fifteen-time All-Star, four-time Gold Glove winner, and holds the record for most consecutive hitting streaks of 15 or more games (13). He’s also the all-time leader in hits (3,000).
These ten legendary players have made a lasting impact on the game of baseball. From Babe Ruth to Roberto Clemente, these players have all made an indelible mark on baseball history. They’ve all earned their place in the pantheon of greats and will be remembered for generations to come.
