Next, we’re going to rank baseball’s top 10 second basemen. The list includes a few perennial MVP candidates, some of the position’s best defenders and key players to some of baseball’s best teams.
1. Mookie Betts
Mookie Betts has consistently been one of MLB’s best hitters since his 2014 debut with the Boston Red Sox. Formerly a right fielder, Betts is making the full-time switch to second base beginning in 2024. He was an integral member of the Sox 2018 World Series team, including winning the American League Most Valuable Player award the same season. In addition to the MVP award, Betts has finished second in the MVP race three times, including last season with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Additionally, he was one of baseball’s best defenders in right field — winning six Gold Glove awards over an eight-season stretch. Heading into his age-31 season, Betts is arguably the best player on one of baseball’s best teams. He will be a huge part of the Dodgers’ roster — who have lofty expectations for the season.
2. Jose Altuve
A perennial All-Star, Jose Altuve is the engine of the Houston Astros’ recent success. He won the AL MVP in 2017, and then helped the Houston Astros win their first World Series the same season. Altuve has been one of baseball’s top 10 second basemen since 2014. Injuries slightly derailed his 2023 season, as he played less than 100 games in a full season for the first time since 2011. Normally, Altuve would top this list, but Betts’ switch to 2B will put him slightly lower for this season.
Marcus Semien’s play over the last five seasons has put him among the best second basemen in the game. Semien has led the league in both games played and plate appearances in four of the last five seasons. In 2023, Semien was a critical part of the Texas Rangers’ incredible World Series run. He was one of only four players to play in all 162 games, led the league in at-bats and plate appearances and led the AL in runs and hits. His consistent play earned him a third-place MVP finish, only behind Shohei Ohtani and teammate Corey Seager.
4. Luis Arraez
Luis Arraez has consistently improved during his five-season career. Known for his incredible eye and hit for contact, Arraez is a two-time batting champion — winning the crown in both leagues. He put together a memorable first season with the Miami Marlins by hitting .354 and walking more than striking out. In fact, he has walked more than strikeout during his entire career so far. Pair that with his hitting prowess, Arraez is one of the toughest batters to face. He got on base 39% of the time last season, which was eighth in MLB. Arraez’s bat will help him continue as one of baseball’s top 10 second basemen.
Similar to Betts, Bogaerts is making the switch to second base during the 2024 season. Primarily a shortstop during his 11-season career, he makes the move for teammate Ha-Seong Kim. Bogaerts had a down year in the first season of his 11-year contract with the San Diego Padres, but his track record is there. He’s a four-time All-Star and five-time Silver Slugger, who generally provides 20 home runs a season. Bogaerts should play a big role in the Padres’ season, as they try to remain competitive in the tough NL West.
6. Ketel Marte
Ketel Marte comes in at No. 6 after a productive season in 2023. Marte was one of the most important hitters during the Arizona Diamondbacks’ miraculous run to the World Series. His best season came in 2019, when he finished fourth in NL MVP voting and earned his only All-Star appearance. Marte showed up when it mattered most during last season’s playoff race. He notched a hit in 20 consecutive playoff games — a streak that started in his first career playoff game. The streak ended on the final playoff game of the season, when the Rangers secured the World Series.
7. Ozzie Albies
Ozzie Albies has been a critical member of the Atlanta Braves since his 2017 debut at 20 years old. 2023 was one of his most productive seasons for Atlanta. He posted 33 home runs, 109 RBI and earned his third career All-Star appearance. The Braves are one of baseball’s best teams, and he fits in the middle of the star-studded lineup. Albies was one of five hitters to torch 30+ home runs during last season’s campaign.
8. Nico Hoerner
Nico Hoerner, the defensive wizard, lands at No. 8 for second basemen. Hoerner earned his first career Gold Glove during the 2023 campaign, alongside middle-infield teammate Dansby Swanson and left fielder Ian Happ. Despite his stellar defensive abilities, Hoerner has some limitations offensively. He doesn’t hit for as much power as any of the previously-mentioned players. However, he limits strikeouts, contacts the ball at a high rate and steals bases at an efficient clip. Even if Hoerner never hits for power in his career, he’ll consistently rank on the top 10 second basemen.
Gleyber Torres burst onto the MLB scene by earning third in the 2018 AL Rookie of the Year race and earning an All-Star appearance in his first two seasons. Torres was one of the few bright spots for the New York Yankees in 2023, as he returned to his 2018-19 form. Torres torched 25 home runs and limited his strikeouts. The Yankees have lofty playoff expectations for the 2024 season, especially after acquiring Juan Soto. Torres will be an important piece of the Yankees’ success.
10. Bryson Stott
Similar to Hoerner, Bryson Stott is one of baseball’s best defenders at second base. Stott is entering his third season in 2024, so his peak offensive production is still unknown. He significantly improved his production in 2023, including a 30 double, 30 stolen base season last year. The 26-year-old is an unspoken important piece to the Philadelphia Phillies, who have made deep postseason runs in back-to-back seasons. Stott is likely to win the Gold Glove during his career, and continue climbing the top 10 second basemen list.
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