The Top 10 Pittsburgh Pirates of All-Time
The Top 10 Pittsburgh Pirates of All-Time
By Oliver Wiener April 29, 2024 15:14
The Pittsburgh Pirates, established in 1882, boast a rich history and have seen numerous talented players grace their roster over the years.
From legendary hitters to dominant pitchers, the Pirates have had their fair share of baseball icons. Here's a comprehensive list of the top 10 Pittsburgh Pirates of all time.
1. Honus Wagner
Position: Shortstop Years with Pirates: 1900-1917
Honus Wagner, known as "The Flying Dutchman," is widely considered one of the greatest shortstops in baseball history.
He spent the majority of his career with the Pirates and was known for his exceptional hitting and defensive skills. Wagner's career batting average of .327 and 3,415 hits solidify his place as an all-time great.
2. Roberto Clemente
Position: Right fielder Years with Pirates: 1955-1972
Roberto Clemente, a 15-time All-Star and 12-time Gold Glove winner, is revered for his remarkable arm strength and accurate throwing.
He was the first Latin American and Caribbean player to be enshrined in the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Clemente's career was tragically cut short in a plane crash while he was on a humanitarian mission to deliver aid to earthquake victims in Nicaragua.
3. Willie Stargell
Position: Left fielder/First baseman Years with Pirates: 1962-1982
Willie Stargell, affectionately known as "Pops," was a prolific power hitter and a key figure in the Pirates' World Series championships in 1971 and 1979.
He amassed 475 career home runs and was named the National League MVP in 1979.
Stargell's leadership and impact on the team make him one of the most beloved Pirates of all time.
4. Paul Waner
Position: Right fielder Years with Pirates: 1926-1940
Paul Waner, also known as "Big Poison," was a consistent and reliable hitter throughout his career with the Pirates.
He secured three batting titles and finished with a career batting average of .333.
Waner's offensive prowess and contributions to the Pirates' success in the 1920s and 1930s solidify his place among the franchise's greats.
5. Arky Vaughan
Position: Shortstop Years with Pirates: 1932-1941
Arky Vaughan, a dynamic shortstop with exceptional hitting abilities, was a critical component of the Pirates' lineup during the 1930s. Vaughan's career .318 batting average and six All-Star selections highlight his impact on the team. His legacy as one of the premier shortstops of his era cements his status as a Pirates legend.
6. Ralph Kiner
Position: Left fielder Years with Pirates: 1946-1953
Ralph Kiner was a prolific home run hitter during his time with the Pirates, leading the National League in home runs for seven consecutive seasons. His impressive power and ability to drive in runs made him a formidable force in the lineup.
Kiner's impact on the Pirates' offense and his remarkable home run prowess earn him a place among the franchise's top players.
7. Pie Traynor
Position: Third baseman Years with Pirates: 1920-1937
Pie Traynor, known for his exceptional defensive skills and steady hitting, was a cornerstone of the Pirates' success during the 1920s and 1930s.
He was renowned for his leadership on and off the field and was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1948.
Traynor's enduring influence on the Pirates organization solidifies his place among the all-time greats.
8. Roberto Clemente
Position: Right fielder Years with Pirates: 1955-1972
Roberto Clemente, a 15-time All-Star and 12-time Gold Glove winner, is revered for his remarkable arm strength and accurate throwing.
He was the first Latin American and Caribbean player to be enshrined in the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Clemente's career was tragically cut short in a plane crash while he was on a humanitarian mission to deliver aid to earthquake victims in Nicaragua.
9. Bill Mazeroski
Position: Second baseman Years with Pirates: 1956-1972
Bill Mazeroski is best remembered for his legendary walk-off home run in Game 7 of the 1960 World Series, securing the Pirates' victory over the New York Yankees.
Mazeroski was a 10-time Gold Glove winner and played an integral role in the Pirates' success during the 1960s.
His defensive prowess and memorable World Series heroics make him a revered figure in Pirates history.
10. Max Carey
Position: Center fielder Years with Pirates: 1910-1926
Max Carey, known for his exceptional speed and defensive prowess, was a key contributor to the Pirates' success during the early 20th century.
He led the National League in stolen bases 10 times and was renowned for his ability to cover ground in center field.
Carey's impact on the basepaths and his defensive excellence cement his place among the top Pirates of all time.
The Pittsburgh Pirates have been graced by an array of exceptional talents throughout their storied history.
The players mentioned above have left an indelible mark on the franchise and the sport of baseball as a whole, solidifying their places among the top 10 Pittsburgh Pirates of all time.