Top 10 MLB Shortstops of the 2000s

By Oliver Wiener April 01, 2024 10:42

Photo by Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports

The 2000s witnessed the rise of exceptional talent in Major League Baseball, and the shortstop position was no exception.

From defensive prowess to offensive contributions, the top shortstops of this era left an indelible mark on the game.

In this comprehensive Fan Arch article, we'll take a look back into the careers of the top 10 MLB shortstops of the 2000s, analyzing their defensive skills, offensive impact, and overall influence on the sport.

1. Ozzie Smith

Ozzie Smith, known as "The Wizard of Oz," is revered as the greatest defensive shortstop of all time. His remarkable defensive WAR value of 43.4 solidifies his prowess in the field.

Smith's exceptional range, quick release, and acrobatic athleticism set a standard that few have matched. Despite starting as a poor hitter, Smith transformed himself into a tough out at the plate, displaying decent averages, drawing walks, and showcasing excellent speed on the bases.

2. Alex Rodriguez

Alex Rodriguez, often referred to as "A-Rod," was a force to be reckoned with on the field. His offensive prowess, highlighted by a career .296 batting average, 695 home runs, and 2,083 RBIs, places him among the elite hitters of the 2000s.

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While his legacy is tarnished by controversies, his undeniable production cannot be overlooked. A-Rod's three MVP titles and numerous All-Star appearances underscore his impact on the game, making him a formidable presence at the shortstop position.

3. Andrelton Simmons

Andrelton Simmons emerges as a standout defensive shortstop, boasting three of the six highest Defensive Runs Saved totals since 2003. While his offensive contributions are notable, it is his defensive prowess that sets him apart..

4. Derek Jeter

Derek Jeter's impact on the game extends beyond his offensive statistics. As a member of the New York Yankees, Jeter's leadership and clutch performances defined an era of baseball.

His career .310 batting average, 260 home runs, and 1,311 RBIs reflect his offensive prowess, but it was his intangible qualities and ability to excel in pressure situations that solidified his place as one of the top shortstops of the 2000s.

5. Miguel Tejada

Miguel Tejada's offensive contributions as a shortstop were remarkable, highlighted by his career .285 batting average, 307 home runs, and 1,282 RBIs. His ability to consistently produce offensively, coupled with his defensive capabilities, established him as a formidable presence in the league.

6. Nomar Garciaparra

Nomar Garciaparra's offensive prowess and consistency at the plate set him apart as a premier shortstop of the 2000s. His career .313 batting average, 229 home runs, and 936 RBIs underscore his impact as a prolific hitter.

7. Rafael Furcal

Rafael Furcal's dynamic skill set made him a valuable asset at the shortstop position. His speed, defensive capabilities, and offensive contributions, including a career .281 batting average and 1,817 hits, established him as a well-rounded player.

8. Jose Reyes

Jose Reyes' electrifying speed and defensive prowess made him a standout shortstop in the 2000s. His ability to impact the game with his base running, defensive skills, and offensive contributions, including a career .283 batting average and 517 stolen bases, solidifies his place among the top shortstops of the era.

9. Jimmy Rollins

Jimmy Rollins' combination of defensive excellence and offensive contributions established him as a key figure in the league. His career .264 batting average, 231 home runs, and 936 RBIs, coupled with his defensive prowess, rightfully places Rollins on this list.

10. Edgar Renteria

Edgar Renteria's consistency and reliability at the shortstop position set him apart as a key figure in the game. His career .286 batting average, 140 home runs, and 923 RBIs underscore his impact as a well-rounded player.

To conclude, the top 10 MLB shortstops of the 2000s left an enduring legacy through their defensive prowess, offensive contributions, and overall impact on the game. Their remarkable skill sets and consistent performance solidify their positions as premier figures in the evolution of the shortstop position during this era.