The MLB's Best Players at Every Position: A Controversial Debate for 2026
The quest to crown the top MLB player at each position is a challenging endeavor, and the statistical analysis will undoubtedly spark debates among fans and analysts alike. But isn't that what makes it exciting?
MLB Network's annual ranking of the top 10 players at each position has once again stirred the pot. Think the rankings are off? You'll have to take it up with The Shredder, the network's research team, who meticulously crunch the numbers using traditional and advanced metrics, factoring in past performances to decide who makes the cut.
Here's a breakdown of the undisputed number one players at each position, with a nod to some worthy contenders:
Starting Pitcher: Tarik Skubal, Tigers. Skubal's dominance is undeniable with back-to-back AL Cy Young Awards and ERA titles. His 469 strikeouts since 2024 are the most in the league, and he's been instrumental in the Tigers' resurgence. A 0.89 WHIP and 6.5 bWAR in 2025 solidify his top spot, though Pirates' Paul Skenes could also lay claim to the throne.
Catcher: Cal Raleigh, Mariners. Raleigh's power is unmatched, becoming the fourth AL player to smash 60 homers in a season, driving in 125 runs, and finishing second in AL MVP voting. His 49 homers as a catcher in 2025 are a record, and his .948 OPS leads all primary catchers. Raleigh's durability is also impressive, playing 159 games with 121 behind the plate.
First Baseman: Freddie Freeman, Dodgers. Freeman's consistency is remarkable, maintaining his status as the top first baseman. The veteran led all NL first basemen in average (.295) and OBP (.367), and his 12 games with 3+ hits in 2025 were second-most at his position. Freeman's all-around excellence is evident in his active leadership in hits, runs, doubles, RBIs, and total bases.
Second Baseman: Ketel Marte, D-backs. Marte sets the bar for modern second basemen, topping the rankings for the second year. He led qualified second basemen in OBP (.376), OPS (.893), and extra-base hits (56) last season, and his 145 OPS+ is unmatched. Over three seasons, he averages nearly 30 homers, 83 RBIs, and an .887 OPS.
Third Baseman: José Ramírez, Guardians. Ramírez remains the total package at third base, leading in OBP (.360), OPS (.863), and stolen bases (44), while tying for the highest bWAR (5.8). His defensive prowess is evident with 7 outs above average, ranking in the 93rd percentile. Ramírez's 30-30 seasons and AL MVP voting finishes showcase his all-around talent.
Shortstop: Bobby Witt Jr., Royals. Witt is a five-tool superstar, leading shortstops in hits (184), doubles (47), OPS (.852), slugging (.501), extra-base hits (76), stolen bases (38), and bWAR (7.1). His 21 OAA on defense is the most among MLB shortstops, solidifying his elite status.
Left Field: Jarren Duran, Red Sox. Duran's speed and power are a lethal combination. He's produced double-digit triples for two straight seasons, along with impressive doubles and homers. Duran's exceptional sprint speed (29.1 mph) fuels his extra-base hits, and his throwing arm has prevented six extra runs since 2024, ranking among the best outfielders.
Center Field: Julio Rodríguez, Mariners. Rodríguez retains his top spot after a stellar 2025 season. He led AL players in plate appearances (710) and primary center fielders in hits (174) and total bases (309), while recording his second 30-30 season. His elite range (11 OAA) and throwing arm (92.6 mph) make him a defensive force, contributing to his 6.8 bWAR, the highest at his position.
Right Field: Aaron Judge, Yankees. Judge's 2025 season was historic, leading MLB in average (.331), OBP (.457), SLG (.688), OPS (1.145), and OPS+ (215). His 53 homers and 114 RBIs earned him a third AL MVP Award. Judge's hard-hit and barrel rates were among the best in baseball, securing his position. And while his offense is legendary, his defense isn't shabby either, with 4 OAA in 2025.
Relief Pitcher: Aroldis Chapman, Red Sox. Chapman's 2025 season was his best in over a decade, with a 1.17 ERA in 67 relief appearances and 32 saves. At 37, he held opponents to a .132 average and a 0.70 WHIP, leading all relievers with at least 40 appearances. Chapman's remarkable streak of retiring 50 consecutive batters showcases his dominance, earning him a career-high 3.5 bWAR, the highest among MLB relievers.
And there you have it—the undisputed kings of each position. But the beauty of baseball is in the eye of the beholder. Who do you think should have made the cut? Are these rankings spot-on, or do you have a different take? Share your thoughts and let the debate begin!
