The Best Player in The MLB

The question, “Who is the best player in the MLB?” floats around a lot in the world of baseball. Fans, baseball analysts and even major league players contemplate this question continuously throughout the season. The substantial amount of talent across the majors has made this very hard to answer.

The thing about the MLB that is different from other sports leagues is that there are not only one or two clear-cut choices that could be named the top player. Two different people, whether they are an expert of baseball statistics or just a traditional fan of the game, could say two totally different players and could have a legitimate argument to back it up. These players that qualify to answer this question are those who are building up a career to land in Cooperstown, New York and become a Hall of Famer.

Those who could potentially be the MLB’s “best player” are guys like Albert Pujols who hit .299 with 99 RBIs in 2011 and has been looked upon around the league as the best player for the last ten years and one of the best hitters of all time. Then there are players like Matt Kemp with 39 homers and a slugging percentage of .586 or Jose Bautista hitting .302 with 109 RBIs who have not had as long of a career, but has shown just as much success to be in the running for the top player label. Others like Robinson Cano, Joey Votto, Prince Fielder, Troy Tulowitski, Adrian Gonzalez, Ryan Braun and Miguel Cabrera who all hit .300 and had 100 plus RBIs show the amount of skill and talent it takes to be the best in the majors.

But field positions aside, there are a few pitchers that cannot be forgotten when this question comes around. Pitchers like Justin Verlander who won the Cy Young Award and the American League MVP in 2011 with an astounding record of 24-5 could no doubt hold the title of the best. Also, others such as Roy “Doc” Halladay who had a 2.35 ERA in 233.2 innings pitched or CC Sabathia who had an amazing 230 strikeouts are some of the top pitchers and players of the game today. Clayton Kershaw who won the National League pitching triple crown or Cliff Lee with 17 wins and a 2.40 ERA or Chris Carpenter who led his Cardinals pitching staff to a championship season.

Most of the guys listed above are primarily known for their bats so it is rare to hear about their defensive skills. But Albert Pujols, Troy Tulowitski and Matt Kemp have all won multiple gold gloves awards. Then there are guys who are not even listed above such as Mark Teixeira and Adrian Beltre who have not only won multiple gold gloves, but have also shown great numbers at the plate in their career.

The funny thing about this argument is that there are a number of other possible players that could hold the spot for the best baseball player. But that is the best thing about the question, “Who is the best?” there could be numerous candidates that would state their case by showing their skills on the field.