Get ready for an exciting journey into the world of baseball as we dive into the top third basemen of the 2026 MLB season!
The Great Debate: Who's the Greatest Third Baseman of All Time?
Spring training is in full swing, and it's time to analyze the state of baseball. ESPN's renowned analyst, Buster Olney, has embarked on an annual tradition - ranking the top 10 players at every position. Today, we focus on the hot corner - third base.
Our objective is clear: identify the cream of the crop for the upcoming season, not speculate on future stars or career longevity. Over the next fortnight, we'll unveil a new position each day, so stay tuned!
Jose Ramirez: A Legend in the Making?
With a contract extending to 2032, Jose Ramirez is poised to leave an indelible mark on baseball history. This summer, he's expected to hit his 300th career home run and steal his 300th base, solidifying his status as a legend. But the question remains: is he the greatest third baseman ever?
Ramirez's accolades speak for themselves: a seven-time top-6 MVP finisher, six Silver Slugger awards, and approaching 2,000 career hits. Tim Kurkjian, a respected colleague, hails Ramirez as a future Hall of Famer, placing him on Cleveland's Mount Rushmore of baseball.
Terry Francona, who managed Ramirez for the first 11 years of his career, raves about him, calling him the ideal player every manager seeks. Ramirez's impact extends beyond the field, as he commands respect in the clubhouse.
The Top 10 Third Basemen
- Jose Ramirez, Cleveland Guardians
Ramirez's clutch gene is undeniable, as his productivity with runners in scoring position over the last two years proves. His ability to deliver in key moments is a testament to his skill.
- Junior Caminero, Tampa Bay Rays
At just 22 years old, Caminero is a force to be reckoned with. He hit 45 homers last season, outpacing all but a few players. His prowess against fastballs is remarkable, batting .333 with a .742 slugging percentage against four-seamers. However, his performance at Tropicana Field, the Rays' home this season, remains to be seen.
- Alex Bregman, Chicago Cubs
Bregman's move to Wrigley Field, a pitcher-friendly ballpark, may not be as challenging as some predict. His exit velocity has increased in recent seasons, and as an above-average defender, he's a key part of the Cubs' anticipated best defense in MLB.
- Manny Machado, San Diego Padres
Machado is climbing the ranks of the all-time great third basemen. With 41 homers to go for 400, an achievement likely in 2027, and a career WAR of 61.7, he's on track to surpass several Hall of Famers on the WAR list.
- Maikel Garcia, Kansas City Royals
Last season, Garcia broke out, with 60 extra-base hits and an OPS+ of 123. He led AL third basemen in defensive runs saved and outs above average, winning the AL Gold Glove Award. His defensive prowess is unmatched.
- Matt Chapman, San Francisco Giants
The five-time Gold Glove winner experienced a slight dip in WAR last year, but he's still among the leaders at his position. Chapman is making gradual changes at the plate, reducing his strikeout rate and increasing his walk rate.
- Bo Bichette, New York Mets
Bichette's World Series performance showcased his rare hitting ability, even after a seven-week layoff. He's led his league in hits twice and has a career average of .294. However, his defensive transition from shortstop to third base poses challenges, as he needs to adapt to the demands of the position.
- Max Muncy, Los Angeles Dodgers
Muncy's focus and understanding of opposing pitchers' strategies make him a valuable asset. His devastating performance against right-handed pitching last year speaks to his skill.
- Austin Riley, Atlanta Braves
Riley underwent core surgery last season, but he's feeling much better this spring. The Braves need him to replicate his 2021-23 performance, when he generated an impressive 18.7 WAR. He's under contract for the next seven seasons.
- Carlos Correa, Houston Astros
Correa's ankle injury raised concerns, but his production in 2024 was solid. Last year, his numbers dipped, but the Astros value his leadership in the infield, especially as he plays his first full season at third base.
Honorable Mentions
- Jordan Westburg, Baltimore Orioles: Westburg's potential and on-field production are notable, but his latest injury is a setback for Baltimore.
- Addison Barger, Toronto Blue Jays: With the signing of Kazuma Okamoto, Barger's reps at third base may decrease, but his performance in the World Series showcased his skills.
- Caleb Durbin, Boston Red Sox: Durbin fits well into the Red Sox's pitching-and-defense strategy, and his ability to get on base is an asset.
- Matt Shaw, Chicago Cubs: Shaw exceeded defensive expectations last year, but with the addition of Bregman, he'll move into a utility role.
- Ke'Bryan Hayes, Cincinnati Reds: Hayes is recognized for his defensive dominance, leading all third basemen in defensive runs saved and outs above average last season.
- Alec Bohm, Philadelphia Phillies: This is a crucial year for Bohm, who will become a free agent this fall. His improved second-half performance last season bodes well.
- Ryan McMahon, New York Yankees: McMahon's defense is extraordinary, but his offense needs work.
- Eugenio Suarez, Cincinnati Reds: With Hayes as a strong defender, Suarez is expected to get most of his plate appearances at DH.
Get ready for an exciting MLB season! Who do you think will dominate at third base? Share your thoughts in the comments!
