Top MLB Players Of The 2010s: The Ultimate Ranking

by Jhon Lennon 51 views

Hey baseball fanatics! Buckle up, because we're diving deep into the top MLB players of the 2010s. This decade was packed with incredible talent, unforgettable moments, and some serious home runs (literally!). Picking just 100 players was a Herculean task, but we've sifted through stats, highlights, and clutch performances to bring you the definitive ranking. This isn't just about raw numbers; we're considering impact, legacy, and the overall influence these players had on the game. So, grab your peanuts and Cracker Jacks, and let's get started. We'll be looking at everything from Cy Young winners to MVP contenders, and the guys who consistently delivered in the playoffs. Get ready for a trip down memory lane, filled with amazing catches, jaw-dropping strikeouts, and some of the best baseball ever played. This list aims to be comprehensive, celebrating not just the superstars, but also the unsung heroes who made the 2010s a golden age of baseball. This is more than a list; it's a celebration of the sport we all love.

The Criteria: How We Ranked the Best

Alright, before we get to the good stuff, let's talk about how we crafted this list of top MLB players of the 2010s. We didn't just pull names out of a hat, guys. Our process was a mix of objective data and subjective analysis, because let's face it, baseball is as much about the feeling as it is about the stats. Firstly, we heavily considered statistical achievements. Things like batting average, home runs, RBIs, ERA, strikeouts, saves, and WAR (Wins Above Replacement) played a significant role. These numbers give us a clear picture of a player's performance. Secondly, we looked at accolades. Did a player win MVP awards? Cy Young awards? Gold Gloves? These awards are indicators of excellence and are a huge factor in determining their place in the ranks. Thirdly, we factored in postseason performance. Regular season stats are important, but how did they perform under pressure? Did they come through in the clutch? This is a huge separator for players who stepped up when it mattered most. Finally, we considered their overall impact and legacy. Did they change the game? Were they leaders? Did they leave a lasting impression on the sport? This list aims to reflect not only who the best players were, but also who the most impactful players were. We strived for a balanced assessment.

The Top 10 MLB Players of the 2010s

Let's get straight to the heavy hitters. These are the players who defined the 2010s. The absolute cream of the crop, the best of the best! These are the names that come to mind when you think of baseball in the last decade. Here are the top MLB players of the 2010s:

  1. Mike Trout: This is the easiest choice. Trout has been the most dominant player of the decade, a true five-tool player. His WAR numbers are off the charts, and he's been a perennial MVP candidate. His consistency and overall impact are unmatched. This guy is a generational talent, folks. His combination of hitting for average, power, speed, and defense makes him a complete player. His impact on the Angels, despite limited postseason success, is undeniable.
  2. Clayton Kershaw: Arguably the best pitcher of the decade. Kershaw's dominance on the mound was incredible. He has won multiple Cy Young awards and has been a key force for the Dodgers. His postseason struggles have been documented, but his regular-season brilliance cannot be denied. He has an amazing curveball and his ability to command the strike zone is second to none.
  3. Albert Pujols: While his best years were slightly before the 2010s, Pujols continued to be a force in this decade. He hit milestone home runs and remained a consistent threat. His impact on the Cardinals and later the Angels was significant. Pujols is one of the greatest hitters of all time. His ability to hit for both average and power made him a nightmare for pitchers.
  4. Miguel Cabrera: A legendary hitter who won the Triple Crown in 2012. Cabrera's bat was feared throughout the league, and he consistently produced. He is one of the greatest right-handed hitters of all time, and his impact on the Tigers was immense. Cabrera had a unique ability to hit to all fields, making him a difficult out.
  5. Justin Verlander: A dominant pitcher who won a Cy Young and consistently led the league in strikeouts. Verlander's longevity and consistency are remarkable. He was a force for both the Tigers and the Astros, and his postseason success is a testament to his talent. His fastball and slider combination made him almost unhittable on certain days.
  6. Robinson Cano: Cano was one of the best second basemen in the game, known for his smooth swing and consistent hitting. He provided a huge offensive boost and was always a threat. He was a perennial All-Star and Gold Glove winner. Cano made the game look easy, and his impact on the Yankees and Mariners was significant.
  7. Yadier Molina: A defensive wizard behind the plate and a leader for the Cardinals. Molina was a master of calling a game and throwing out runners. His influence on the game extended beyond his offensive stats. He is considered one of the best defensive catchers of all time.
  8. David Ortiz: