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From the bustling streets of New York to the sprawling plains of Texas to the coastal cities of California, each state boasts its own baseball legacy and iconic players. Join us as we delve into the history of Major League Baseball to uncover the greatest player from every state, celebrating their achievements and the mark they’ve left on America’s pastime.
Wyoming: Tom Browning
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Career Stats & Awards: 123-90 (W/L), 3.94 ERA, 1000 SO, 1.271 WHIP, NL All-Star (1991), World Series (1990), 19.8 WAR
Tom Browning enjoyed a 12-year career in the big leagues, spending the bulk of his career with the Cincinnati Reds. On September 16, 1988, Browning pitched a perfect game. Two years later, Browning went 15-9 and helped lead the Reds to a World Series victory. An All-Star in 1991, Browning is a member of the Reds’ Hall of Fame.
Vermont: Carlton Fisk
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Career Stats & Awards: .269/.341/.457, 2356 H, 376 HR, 1330 RBI, 1276 R, AL Rookie of the Year (1972), 68.4 WAR, Hall of Fame (2000)
Forever remembered for the moment captured in the image above, Carlton Fisk enjoyed a tremendous career. Fisk would parlay winning Rookie of the Year honors with the Red Sox into a 24-year career. Fisk was an 11-time All-Star, three-time Silver Slugger, and captured one Gold Glove. Fisk was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2000, his second year on the ballot.
Alaska: Curt Schilling
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Career Stats & Awards: 216-146 (W/L), 22 Saves, 3.46 ERA, 3116 SO, 1.137 WHIP, 6x All-Star, 3x World Series (2001, 2004, 2007) World Series MVP (2001), 79.5 WAR
Curt Schilling is the definition of a big-game pitcher. Schill’s ‘bloody sock’ game will go down as one of the most impressive feats in baseball history. The six-time All-Star won throughout his career. Not only did he win 216 games as a starter in 20 seasons, but Schilling was also a member of three World Series champion teams. Schilling won the NLCS MVP in 1993 and took home World Series MVP honors in 2001 — sharing the award with Randy Johnson.
North Dakota: Darin Erstad
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Career Stats & Awards: .282/.336/.407, 1697 H, 124 HR, 699 RBI, 913 R, 179 SB, World Series (2002), 32.3 WAR
Before taking over coaching duties at the University of Nebraska in 2012, Erstad enjoyed a successful career spanning 14 years. The bulk of Erstad’s success came in Anaheim. While with the Angels, Erstad was selected to two All-Star teams, won three Gold Gloves, and helped the Angels win the 2002 World Series. En route to the title, Erstad was electric. The Angel hit .421 in the ALDS against the Yankees, .364 with a homer in the ALCS against Minnesota, and .300 with a homer and three doubles in a seven-game triumph over the San Francisco Giants.
South Dakota: Keith Foulke
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Career Stats & Awards: 41-37 (W/L), 191 Saves, 3.33 ERA, 718 SO, 1.075 WHIP, Rolaids Reliever of the Year (2003), World Series (2004), 20.7 WAR
A native of Ellsworth Air Force Base, SD, Foulke made a name for himself as a closer. From 2000-04, Foulke converted 162 save opportunities. With the A’s in 2003, Foulke registered 43 saves en route to a 7th-place finish for the Cy Young, and 15th for the AL MVP. As the closer for the Red Sox in 2004, Foulke saved three games throughout the postseason. Impressively, Foulke allowed just one run in 14.0 innings of work.
Delaware: Delino DeShields
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Career Stats & Awards: .268/.352/.377, 1548 H, 80 HR, 561 RBI, 872 R, 463 SB, 24.4 WAR
Before his son made it to the show, Delino “Bop” DeShields was drafted by the Montreal Expos in 1987. DeShields enjoyed a good rookie season, finishing second in the RoY vote. As a third-year player, DeShields received MVP consideration for the only time in his career, finishing 16th. The versatile fielder finished his career with 561 RBI and 463 SB. However, DeShields’ lasting legacy may be the fact that the Dodgers opted to trade Pedro Martinez, yes that Pedro…for the fast infielder. That one hurts.
Montana: Dave McNally
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Career Stats & Awards: 184-119 (W/L), 2 Saves, 3.24 ERA, 1512 SO, 1.214 WHIP, 2x World Series (1966, 1970), 25.5 WAR
Dave McNally made the town of Billings very proud throughout his career. As a 19-year-old, McNally made a dream-like debut — 9.0 IP, 2 H, 4 SO, 3 BB, 0 ER. The victory was the first of 184 career wins for the long-time Oriole pitcher. McNally was a three-time All-Star and two-time World Series champion with the franchise. In the 1966 World Series, McNally pitched a complete game shutout against the Dodgers. Four years later, McNally tossed yet another complete game in the World Series — this time against the Reds.
Rhode Island: Paul Konerko
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Career Stats & Awards: .279/.354/.486, 2340 H, 439 HR, 1412 RBI, 1162 R, World Series (2005), 28.0 WAR
Konerko, Rhode Island’s finest, enjoyed a tremendous career with the Chicago White Sox. A six-time All-Star, Konerko led the Sox to the 2005 World Series title. A career .279 hitter, the first baseman slugged 439 HR and plated 1,412 runs. On the road to Chicago’s championship in 2005, Konerko was a menace at the plate. The free-swinging first baseman hit two homers in both the ALDS (vs. BOS) and the ALCS (vs. LAA) — earning the ALCS MVP. In sweeping the Astros in the World Series, Konerko hit a fifth home run and drove in four runs.
Maine: Bob Stanley
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Career Stats & Awards: 115-97 (W/L), 132 Saves, 3.64 ERA, 693 SO, 1.364 WHIP, 23.9 WAR
Although Boston fans may remember Bob Stanley for blowing a lead in Game 6 of the 1986 World Series, Stanley was an important player in Boston for over a decade. Stanley accumulated 115 wins, two All-Star nods, and finished as high as 7th in Cy Young voting. Even in his much-maligned outing against the Mets in the World Series, Stanley went 6.1 IP without allowing an earned run. In fact, Stanley’s work in that series was easily the best of his postseason career.
New Hampshire: Chris Carpenter
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Career Stats & Awards: 144-94 (W/L), 3.76 ERA, 1697 SO, 1.276 WHIP, 2x World Series (2006, 2011), NL Cy Young (2005), ERA Title (2009), 34.2 WAR
When healthy, Chris Carpenter was one of the best pitchers in baseball during the early 2000s. From 2004-06, Carpenter went 51-18 with a 3.10 ERA. During that span, he won the 2005 Cy Young, finished 2nd in voting in 2006, and went 3-1 in the ’06 playoffs en route to a World Series victory. The Cardinals’ ace would finish 2nd for the Cy in 2009, and win a second title in 2011. In St. Louis’ two title runs, Carpenter went 3-1 (’06) and 4-0 (’11).
Hawaii: Shane Victorino
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Career Stats & Awards: .275/.340/.425, 1274 H, 108 HR, 489 RBI, 731 R, 231 SB, 4x Gold Glove, 2x World Series (2008, 2013), 31.5 WAR
Nicknamed “The Flyin’ Hawaiian,” Shane Victorino became a fan favorite during his time in Philadelphia. In seven seasons with the Phillies, Victorino earned All-Star honors twice, took home three Gold Gloves, and was a key member of the 2008 World Series champion Phillies. Victorino’s speed was an incredible asset to the Phills, as evidenced by Victorino leading baseball in triples on two occasions. In the 2008 postseason, the Hawaiian had six XBH, 13 RBI and three stolen bases.
Idaho: Harmon Killebrew
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Career Stats & Awards: .256/.376/.509, 2086 H, 573 HR, 1584 RBI, 1283 R, AL MVP (1969), 60.4 WAR, Hall of Fame (1984)
Harmon Killebrew made the game of baseball look easy. A member of the Hall of Fame, Killebrew finished his career with 573 HR and 1,584 RBI. The slugger was a 13-time All-Star and the 1969 AL MVP. From 1961-71, Killebrew finished in the top-15 of MVP voting nine times. Killer led the AL in home runs six times (MLB five times), paced the league in RBI three times and walked more than any other player on four occasions.
West Virginia: George Brett
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Career Stats & Awards: .305/.369/.487, 3154 H, 317 HR, 1596 RBI, 1583 R, 201 SB, World Series (1985), 3x Batting Title (1976, 1980, 1990), 88.6 WAR, Hall of Fame (1999)
Born in Glen Dale, WV, George Brett is one of the best athletes to ever come out of the state. Brett’s accomplishments are endless — Hall of Fame, 1980 MVP, 13-time All-Star, three-time AL batting champion, three-time Silver Slugger, and 1985 World Series champion. Brett’s fiery personality could only be matched by his tremendous ability. It is impressive to lead the league in hitting one time, let alone three times — the first and last coming 14 years apart, speaking to Brett’s greatness. In the 1985 ALCS, Brett hit .348 with three homers. Brett upped his average to a remarkable .370 clip against the Cardinals in the World Series, leading the Royals to a victory in Game 7.
Nebraska: Bob Gibson
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Career Stats & Awards: 251-174 (W/L), 2.91 ERA, 3117 SO, 1.188 WHIP, 2x World Series (1964, 1967), 2x NL Cy Young (1968, 1970), NL MVP (1968), ERA Title (1968), 89.2 WAR, Hall of Fame (1981)
This Nebraska native became known as one of the most intimidating pitchers of all-time throughout his 17-year career. Bob Gibson bullied and utterly dominated hitters. In 1968, Gibson sported a 1.12 ERA — winning both the NL Cy Young and MVP. Gibson, now in the Hall of Fame, finished his career with two Cy Young’s, two World Series titles, two WS MVPs and nine All-Star nods. During his career, Gibson made only nine postseason starts. Proving his legendary status, Gibson completed 8-of-9 starts including two shutouts.
New Mexico: Ralph Kiner
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Career Stats & Awards: .279/.398/.578, 1451 H, 369 HR, 1015 RBI, 971 R, 22 SB, 6x All-Star, 47.9 WAR, Hall of Fame (1975)
A Pittsburgh legend, Ralph Kiner was one of the most feared sluggers of all-time. From 1947-52, Kiner averaged 45 HR and 115 RBI per season. Although he only played 10 seasons, Kiner is a member of the Hall of Fame due in large part to his powerful swing. The Pirate great finished his career with 369 HR — including a monstrous run in which he led baseball in home runs six years in a row from 1947-52. It’s a shame Kiner couldn’t extend his career a few years.
Nevada: Bryce Harper
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Career Stats & Awards (through 2023 season): .281/.391/.521, 1513 H, 306 HR, 889 RBI, 997 R, 133 SB, NL Rookie of the Year (2012), 2x NL MVP (2015, 2021), 46.2 WAR
Bryce Harper is 12 years into his career, but it is safe to say he is the best Nevada has to offer. A household name at the age of 15, Harper has lived up to the hype. He is a six-time All-Star, Rookie of the Year, Silver Slugger and the 2015 NL MVP. After signing a 13-year/$330 million contract with the Philadelphia Phillies ahead of the 2019 season, Harper claimed his second NL MVP in 2021. Harper has plenty of time to enhance his Hall of Fame worthy-resume.
Kansas: Walter Johnson
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Career Stats & Awards: 417-279 (W/L), 2.17 ERA, 3509 SO, 1.061 WHIP, World Series (1924), 2x AL MVP (1913, 1924), 5x ERA Title (1912-13, 1918-19, 1924), 164.5 WAR, Hall of Fame (1936)
A state known for its basketball roots, Kansas was the birthplace of one of baseball’s all-time pitchers. Walter Johnson won an astonishing 417 games and posted a lifetime 2.17 ERA. Johnson struck out 3,509 batters on his way to three Triple Crowns (1913, 1918, 1924), five ERA titles, and two MVPs. Johnson started six games in the postseason, tossing five complete games with a 2.52 ERA.
Arkansas: Brooks Robinson
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Career Stats & Awards: .267/.322/.401, 2848 H, 268 HR, 1357 RBI, 1232 R, 28 SB, 2x World Series (1966, 1970), AL MVP (1964), 78.4 WAR, Hall of Fame (1983)
Before Cal Ripken manned the hot corner for the Orioles, the spot belonged to Brooks Robinson. The Hall of Famer was a defensive wizard — earning 16 Gold Gloves. Also an 18-time All-Star, Robinson took home AL MVP honors in 1964 and led the franchise to World Series titles in 1966 and 1970. Robinson may have struggled against the Dodgers in the ’66 World Series (.214 BA), but he turned it on in his subsequent appearances. In the ’70 ALCS, Robinson hit .583 and then .429 in the World Series.
Mississippi: Dave Parker
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Career Stats & Awards: .290/.339/.471, 2712 H, 339 HR, 1493 RBI, 1272 R, 154 SB, NL MVP (1978), 2x World Series (1979, 1989), 2x Batting Title (1977, 1978)
The pride of Grenada, MS, Dave Parker far surpassed expectations after being selected in the 14th round. The 1978 NL MVP, Parker was a member of two World Series teams, won two Batting Titles — hitting .338 and .334 — and was a seven-time All-Star. Parker could do more than hit — as a rangy right fielder, Parker captured three Gold Gloves. In helping the Pirates win the title in 1979, Parker hit .333 in the NLCS and .345 in the World Series.
Utah: Bruce Hurst
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Career Stats & Awards: 145-113 (W/L), 3.92 ERA, 1689 SO, 1.325 WHIP, 34.1 WAR
Utah has not produced many good baseball players. Bruce Hurst is the most accomplished one of the lot, tallying 145 victories in 15 years. Hurst made his lone All-Star appearance in 1987 and followed it up with an 18-6 record in 1988. After an uninspiring start to his career, Hurst turned things around the back half of his time in the Majors. Starting with his 13-8 record in 1986, Hurst went 101-64 through the 1992 season. In his limited postseason experiences, Hurst performed well — completing 3-of-7 starts with a 3-2 record and 2.29 ERA.
Iowa: Bob Feller
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Career Stats & Awards: 266-162 (W/L), 3.25 ERA, 2581 SO, 1.316 WHIP, 22 Saves, World Series (1948), ERA Title (1940), Triple Crown (1940), MLB Player of the Year (1940), 63.4 WAR, Hall of Fame (1962)
“The Heater from Van Meter.” Born in Van Meter, IA, Bob Feller relied on his fastball to dominate opponents. An eight-time All-Star, Feller won 266 games and struck out more than 2,500 batters during his war-shortened career. Feller’s 279 complete games and 44 shutouts helped punch his ticket to Cooperstown. During his Triple Crown season, Feller posted a 2.61 ERA, won 27 games and struck out 261 batters.
Connecticut: Jim O’Rourke
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Career Stats & Awards: .310/.352/.422, 2639 H, 62 HR, 1208 RBI, 1729 R, 229 SB, 2x World Series (1888, 1889), Batting Title (1884), 52.2 WAR, Hall of Fame (1945)
A career .310 hitter, O’Rourke enjoyed a splendid career with the Boston Red Stockings and New York Giants. O’Rourke won two World Series and one Batting Title (1884), hitting .347 for the Buffalo Bisons. For his time, O’Rourke was one of the most prolific players in the game. His 2,146 hits were the second-most in baseball during his career. In 1904 — 11 years removed from his final appearance — O’Rourke returned for one last game. He finished the day 1-for-4.
Oklahoma: Mickey Mantle
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Career Stats & Awards: .298/.421/.557, 2415 H, 536 HR, 1509 RBI, 1676 R, 153 SB, 3x AL MVP (1956, 1957, 1962), 7x World Series (1951-53, 1956, 1958, 1961-62), Batting Title (1956), 110.2 WAR, Hall of Fame (1974)
This man needs no introduction. Mickey Mantle is one of the greatest players of all-time. A three-time MVP, seven-time World Series champion, and 20-time All-Star, Mantle could do it all. He hit for average, power, and made a habit of drawing walks. While he wasn’t great in postseason play — .257/.374/.535, Mantle came through when it mattered most and hit 18 dingers — he will always be remembered as one of the best.
Oregon: Dale Murphy
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Career Stats & Awards: .265/.346/.469, 2111 H, 398 HR, 1266 RBI, 1197 R, 161 SB, 2x NL MVP (1982, 1983), 46.5 WAR
One of the most versatile ballplayers in the big leagues throughout his career, Dale Murphy excelled in all facets of the game while playing for the Braves. Murphy won back-to-back MVPs (1982-83), four-straight Silver Sluggers (’82-85) and five-straight Gold Glove Awards (’82-86). The seven-time All-Star excelled as an outfielder, catcher and first baseman throughout his 18-year career. Unfortunately, Murphy’s great individual career didn’t translate to a lot of wins. He made the postseason only once — 1982 with Atlanta — and hit .273 in a sweep at the hands of the Cardinals.
Kentucky: Pee Wee Reese
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Career Stats & Awards: .269/.366/.377, 2170 H, 126 HR, 885 RBI, 1338 R, 232 SB, World Series (1955), 68.2 WAR, Hall of Fame (1984)
A Louisville native, Reese will forever be revered for his support of his teammate Jackie Robinson. Reese was a great player in his own right. A 10-time All-Star and member of the Hall of Fame, Reese helped lead the Dodgers to seven National League Pennants. After falling short to the Yankees in the World Series five times, Reese helped the Dodgers get over the hump by hitting .296 in the 1955 World Series — capturing his lone title in a thrilling seven-game series.
Louisiana: Mel Ott
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Career Stats & Awards: .304/.414/.533, 2876 H, 511 HR, 1860 RBI, 1859 R, 89 SB, World Series (1933), 110.7 WAR, Hall of Fame (1951)
At first glance, one would not assume Mel Ott to be a power hitter. Only 5-foot-9 and 170 pounds, Ott overcame his slight frame to club 511 HR and drive in 1,860 runs. A 12-time All-Star, Ott was an all-around hitter. The lefty finished his career just shy of 3,000 hits (2,876) and posted a lifetime .304 BA. In 16 postseason games, Ott hit .295 and sent four pitches into the bleachers beyond the outfield wall.
Alabama: Hank Aaron
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Career Stats & Awards: .305/.374/.555, 3771 H, 755 HR, 2297 RBI, 2174 R, 240 SB, NL MVP (1957), World Series (1957), 2x Batting Title (1956, 1959), 143.1 WAR, Hall of Fame (1982)
Between Willie Mays and Hank Aaron, Alabama is home to two of the greatest athletes to ever live. Both players are in a class of their own. However, let’s spotlight Aaron. A 25-time All-Star, Aaron is famous for hitting 755 HR. The former ‘Home Run King’ also accumulated 3,771 hits, batted .305 and has an MLB-record 2,297 RBI. Hammerin’ Hank was also a three-time Gold Glove recipient, two-time batting champion, World Series champion and the 1957 NL MVP. A bonafide top-5 player of all-time, there is no questioning Aaron’s immense legacy.
South Carolina: Jim Rice
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Career Stats & Awards: .298/.352/.502, 2452 H, 382 HR, 1451 RBI, 1249 R, 58 SB, AL MVP (1978), 47.7 WAR, Hall of Fame (2009)
A powerful right-handed hitter, Jim Rice enjoyed a sterling 16-year career with the Red Sox. The Hall of Famer from Anderson, SC, won the 1978 AL MVP, was selected to eight All-Star teams, and won two Silver Sluggers throughout his time in Beantown. Rice led the American League in home runs on three separate occasions and paced the Majors in RBI twice. In Boston’s heartbreaking loss to the Mets in the 1986 World Series, Rice hit .333 — but failed to record an RBI or extra-base hit.
Colorado: Roy Halladay
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Career Stats & Awards: 203-105 (W/L), 3.38 ERA, 2117 SO, 1.178 WHIP, 1 Save, 2x Cy Young (2003, 2010), 64.2 WAR, Hall of Fame (2019)
One of the best pitchers from the 2000s, Halladay utilized a four-pitch repertoire for much of his career — relying heavily on a devastating two-seam fastball. Halladay captured two Cy Young Awards (2003, 2010) and threw two no-hitters during the 2010 season — a perfect game on May 29 and another no-hitter in the postseason against the Cincinnati Reds. Halladay’s life was tragically cut short in 2017 when an aircraft the pitcher was flying crashed. Halladay was 40 years old.
Minnesota: Dave Winfield
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Career Stats & Awards: .283/.353/.475, 3110 H, 465 HR, 1833 RBI, 1669 R, 223 SB, World Series (1992), 64.2 WAR, Hall of Fame (2001)
Dave Winfield played for six teams, including his hometown Twins, but is mainly remembered for his time with the Padres and Yankees. While with San Diego, Winfield was a four-time All-Star and two-time Gold Glove winner. With the Yankees, he captured eight All-Star nods and five additional Gold Glove Awards. Winfield’s lone trip to the World Series while with the Yankees didn’t go well — the Hall of Famer went 1-for-22 in a six-game loss to the Dodgers. As a 40-year-old with the Blue Jays, Winfield recorded five hits and drove in three runs for the title-winning Jays.
Wisconsin: Kid Nichols
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Career Stats & Awards: 362-208 (W/L), 2.96 ERA, 1881 SO, 1.224 WHIP, 16 Saves, 116.3 WAR, Hall of Fame (1949)
A 361-game winner, Kid Nichols became the youngest pitcher to reach the 300-win plateau at the age of 30. The majority of Nichols’ success came while playing for the Boston Beaneaters. In 1892, the Hall of Famer went 35-16 and held a 2.84 ERA. For his career, Nichols started 562 games and completed 532(!) of them — including 48 shutouts. Through his first five seasons, the Hall of Famer pitched an insane 2,134.1 innings. In his lone World Series appearance? Two complete games, one shutout, and two wins.
Maryland: Babe Ruth
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Career Stats & Awards: .342/.474/.690, 2873 H, 714 HR, 2214 RBI, 2174 R, 123 SB, AL MVP (1923), 7x World Series (1915-16, 1918, 1923, 1927-28, 1932), Batting Title (1924), 182.5 WAR, Hall of Fame (1936)
Generally regarded as the greatest baseball player of all-time, Babe Ruth could do it all. As a pitcher, Ruth finished his career 94-46 with an impressive 2.28 ERA. The seven-time World Series champion was a lifetime .342 hitter. Famous for his prolific power, “The Sultan of Swat” hit 714 HR — the third most of all-time. In his last five trips to the World Series, Ruth hit 14 big flies. The name Ruth will always be synonymous with baseball.
Missouri: Yogi Berra
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Career Stats & Awards: .285/.348/.482, 2150 H, 358 HR, 1430 RBI, 1175 R, 30 SB, 3x AL MVP (1951, 1954, 1955), 10x World Series (1947, 1949-53, 1956, 1958, 1961-62), 59.5 WAR, Hall of Fame (1972)
One of the sports all-time winners, Yogi Berra put together quite the career in pinstripes. The trusty backstop won an incredible 10 World Series titles with the Yankees. A player who hit for average (.285) and power (358), Berra totaled 2,150 career hits. In addition to his 10 championships, Berra won three AL MVPs and was selected to 18 All-Star teams. Between 1950-56, Berra finished within the top-4 of MVP voting. It is only fitting that one of the greatest winners of all-time entered the Hall of Fame shortly after his retirement.
Tennessee: Mookie Betts
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Career Stats & Awards (through 2023 season): .294/.373/.527, 1485 H, 252 HR, 756 RBI, 996 R, 172 SB, Batting Title (2018), 2x World Series (2018, 2020), MVP (2018), 64.5 WAR
With apologies to Todd Helton, Mookie Betts is the best player to hail from Tennessee. Betts broke into the big leagues with the Boston Red Sox in 2014. In six years with the Sox, the all-around star earned four All-Star nods and four Gold Gloves. Betts was spectacular in 2018 — winning the American League MVP and leading Boston to a World Series victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers. The star was traded to those same Dodgers ahead of the ’20 season, and he promptly led Los Angeles to a World Series win. In addition to winning the ’18 AL MVP, Betts has three runner-up finishes (’16, ’20, ’23).
Indiana: Mordecai Brown
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Career Stats & Awards: 239-130 (W/L), 2.06 ERA, 1375 SO, 1.066 WHIP, 49 Saves, 2x World Series (1907, 1908), ERA Title (1906), 58.4 WAR, Hall of Fame (1949)
Mordecai “Three Finger” Brown prospered in the big leagues despite losing parts of two fingers while growing up in Indiana. Brown put together a Hall of Fame career with the Cubs, earning an ERA title in 1906 by posting a minuscule 1.04 ERA. Brown held a 1.56 ERA from 1904-10, going 160-66 with 178 complete games and 46 shutouts. Brown finished his career with 271 complete games and 55 shutouts — including three in the World Series.
Massachusetts: Tom Glavine
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Career Stats & Awards: 305-203 (W/L), 3.54 ERA, 2607 SO, 1.314 WHIP, 2x NL Cy Young (1991, 1998), World Series (1995), 80.7 WAR, Hall of Fame (2014)
A lefty from Concord, MA, Tom Glavine made a career out of making people look silly. A legendary figure for the Braves, Glavine earned MVP honors for his effort in the 1995 World Series. Glavine also picked up two NL Cy Youngs and was a 10-time All-Star. Glavine could also hold his own at the plate and, as a result, took home four Silver Slugger Awards. The lefty led the National League in wins five times (MLB four times) and had six top-3 Cy Young finishes. Out of his 35 postseason starts, eight came in the World Series — Glavine tossed three complete games.
Arizona: Cody Bellinger
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Career Stats & Awards (through 2023 season): .258/.335/.493, 805 H, 178 HR, 519 RBI, 529 R, 82 SB, 2x All-Star, 1x Gold Glove, World Series (2020), MVP (2019), Rookie of the Year (2017), 22.1 WAR
The state of Arizona is relatively thin on top-end talent. Ian Kinsler had a respectable career, but Cody Bellinger leads the charge thanks to his achievements. Through the first seven years of his career, Bellinger owns an MVP and World Series title. A high-end defensive player in both centerfield and at first base, Bellinger burst onto the scene in 2017 when he hit 39 HR in 132 games en route to National League Rookie of the Year honors. Two years later, Belli won the NL MVP after slashing .305/406/.629 with 47 HR and 115 RBI. In ’20, the star hit four homers and helped lead the Dodgers to a WS victory. After a few injury-riddled seasons, Belli had a great ’23 campaign with the Chicago Cubs.
Washington: Ron Santo
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Career Stats & Awards: .277/.362/.464, 2254 H, 342 HR, 1331 RBI, 1138 R, 35 SB, 70.5 WAR, Hall of Fame (2012)
A beloved member of the Chicago Cubs for 14 seasons, Santo endeared himself to the fans with his slick fielding and timely hitting. Santo captured five Gold Glove Awards and was a member of nine All-Star teams. Regrettably, Santo never reached the postseason during his 15-year career. In addition to being elected to the Hall of Fame in 2012, the popular Cub was named to the Cubs’ All-Century Team in 1999. Ryne Sandberg — also a Hall of Famer who played with the Cubs — could also be considered Washington’s best player.
Virginia: Justin Verlander
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Career Stats & Awards (through 2023 season): 257-141 (W/L), 3.24 ERA, 3342 SO, 1.118 WHIP, 3x AL Cy Young (2011, 2019, 2022), 2x World Series (2017, 2022), 80.9 WAR
A product of Goochland HS in Virginia, Justin Verlander has enjoyed an incredible career thus far. Blessed with a powerful fastball and a devastating curve, Verlander has accomplished more than most — Rookie of the Year (2006), ERA Title (2011), AL MVP (’11), Cy Young (’11, ’19, ’22), Triple Crown (’11), ALCS MVP (’17) and World Series champion (’17, ’22). In ’22, at the age of 39, Verlander won his third Cy Young. Verlander will be in Cooperstown one day.
New Jersey: Derek Jeter
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Career Stats & Awards: .310/.377/.440, 3465 H, 260 HR, 1311 RBI, 1923 R, 358 SB, 5x World Series (1996, 1998-2000, 2009), 71.3 WAR, Hall of Fame (2020)
Although Derek Jeter is the king of New York, he hails from across the George Washington Bridge — Pequannock, NJ. When Mike Trout completes his career he may surpass Jeter — especially if he can win in the postseason — but for now, the honor belongs to No. 2. A 14-time All-Star, Jeter helped usher in the latest Yankee dynasty. An all-time clutch player, Jeter won five World Series, five Gold Glove Awards and five Silver Slugger Awards. In postseason play, No. 2 slashed .308/.374/.465 with 20 homers, 32 doubles and 200 total hits.
Michigan: John Smoltz
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Career Stats & Awards: 213-155 (W/L), 3.33 ERA, 3084 SO, 1.176 WHIP, 154 Saves, NL Cy Young (1996), World Series (1995), 69.0 WAR, Hall of Fame (2015)
Originally drafted by his hometown Tigers in 1985, Smoltz never appeared in a Detroit uniform. Instead, he became a Hall of Fame pitcher for the Atlanta Braves. Dominant as both a starter and a closer, Smoltz finished his career with 213 wins and 154 saves. Following a World Series victory in 1995, Smoltz captured the 1996 NL Cy Young. In 2002, Smoltz won the NL Rolaids Relief Man Award. What Smoltz accomplished is truly remarkable. The Brave notched 157 wins as a starter from 1988-99, only to convert to a closer as he came back from injury. After three dominant seasons in the pen, Smoltz returned to the starting rotation and went 44-24 with a 3.22 ERA in three seasons — his age 38-40 years.
North Carolina: Gaylord Perry
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Career Stats & Awards: 314-265 (W/L), 3.11 ERA, 3534 SO, 1.181 WHIP, 10 Saves, 2x Cy Young (1972, 1978), 90.0 WAR, Hall of Fame (1991)
Famous for his spitball, Gaylord Perry put together an unbelievable résumé. Over a career spanning 22 seasons, Perry became the first pitcher to win the Cy Young in each league. His first Cy came with the Indians in 1972 (24-16, 1.92 ERA) — the second with the Padres (21-6, 2.73 ERA). The Hall of Famer made just two postseason starts. The first, Perry threw a complete game and earned a victory. The second, Perry allowed seven runs in 5.2 innings and his team was eliminated. Still, Perry earned his way to Cooperstown on the strength of 314 wins, 3,534 strikeouts and a 3.11 ERA.
Georgia: Ty Cobb
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Career Stats & Awards: .366/.433/.512, 4189 H, 117 HR, 1944 RBI, 2245 R, 897 SB, 12x Batting Title (1907-15, 1917-19), AL MVP (1911), 151.0 WAR, Hall of Fame (1936)
One of baseball’s all-time greats, Ty Cobb set a stunning mark of 90 MLB records during his career. Cobb won 12 AL Batting Titles, led the league in RBI on four occasions and led the league in steals six times. Cobb left the game with a .366 BA and 4,189 hits. His WAR ranks sixth all-time behind five legends of the game — Babe Ruth, Cy Young, Walter Johnson, Barry Bonds, and Willie Mays.
Ohio: Pete Rose
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Career Stats & Awards: .303/.375/.409, 4256 H, 160 HR, 1314 RBI, 2165 R, 198 SB, 3x World Series (1975, 1976, 1980), 3x Batting Title (1968-69, 1973), NL MVP (1973), 79.7 WAR
The only man to have more hits than Ty Cobb, Pete Rose is one of the greatest to ever put on a pair of spikes. Known for his short fuse and dogged determination, Rose enjoyed a successful career. The 1973 NL MVP was named to 17 All-Star teams while manning an unprecedented five positions throughout his career. Predominately an infielder, Rose won both of his Gold Gloves as an outfielder. Rose retired with 4,256 hits and three World Series victories. Yet, the all-time great is still permanently banned from baseball — therefore, he isn’t eligible for the Hall of Fame. Another all-time great, Roger Clemens (7x Cy Young) was also born in Ohio — and like Rose, is not in the HoF despite his achievements.
Pennsylvania: Stan Musial
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Career Stats & Awards: .331/.417/.559, 3630 H, 475 HR, 1951 RBI, 1949 R, 78 SB, 3x World Series (1942, 1944, 1946), 3x NL MVP (1943, 1946, 1948), 7x Batting Title (1943, 1946, 1948, 1950-52, 1957), 128.3 WAR, Hall of Fame (1969)
When looking at Pennsylvania’s best you have two players that stand above the rest — Ken Griffey Jr. and Stan Musial. Both are amongst the all-time greats. In the case of Musial, the Cardinals’ legend was an absolute terror at the plate. A three-time MVP, Musial won seven NL batting titles on his way to 3,630 career hits. A lifetime .331 hitter, Musial slugged 475 HR and nearly scored as many runs (1,949) as he drove in (1,951). To top it off, Musial won the World Series three times — despite not performing anywhere close to his capabilities (.256/.347/.395, one HR).
Illinois: Rickey Henderson
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Career Stats & Awards: .279/.401/.419, 3055 H, 297 HR, 1115 RBI, 2295 R, 1406 SB, 2x World Series (1989, 1993), AL MVP (1990), 111.2 WAR, Hall of Fame (2009)
Most recognized for being a speed demon, Rickey Henderson was much more than just a base stealer. Henderson topped 100 steals three times — peaking at 130 in 1982. Henderson stole an MLB-record 1,406 bases, but he also hit for power and average. Henderson ended his Hall of Fame career with a .279 BA, 3,055 hits, 297 HR and three Silver Slugger Awards. The “Man of Steal” won two World Series, the 1990 AL MVP and earned 10 All-Star nods. One last note on his ability on the basepaths — at the age of 42, Henderson still managed to steal 25 bases for the San Diego Padres.
New York: Alex Rodriguez
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Career Stats & Awards: .295/.380/.550, 3115 H, 696 HR, 2086 RBI, 2021 R, 329 SB, World Series (2009), 3x AL MVP (2003, 2005, 2007), Batting Title (1996), 117.5 WAR
With apologies to Sandy Koufax and Lou Gehrig, Alex Rodriguez is the best baseball player ever born in New York. One of the greatest hitters of all-time and a plus-defender in his prime, A-Rod could do it all. The controversial star is 5th all-time in HR (696), 4th in RBI (2,086), 16th in WAR (117.8) and 23rd in hits (3,115). A-Rod claimed three AL MVPs, 14 All-Star nods, 10 Silver Slugger Awards, two Gold Gloves and won the 2009 World Series with the Yankees. If it weren’t for his confirmed steroid use, A-Rod would be a first-ballot Hall of Famer and would be widely considered a top-5 player in the history of baseball.
Florida: Chipper Jones
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Career Stats & Awards: .303/.401/.529, 2726 H, 468 HR, 1623 RBI, 1619 R, 150 SB, World Series (1995), Batting Title (2008), 85.3 WAR, Hall of Fame (2018)
One of the greatest players to ever man the hot corner, Larry “Chipper” Jones etched his name into the history books while spending his entire 19-year career in Atlanta. Chipper finished his career with a .303 BA and 468 HR — the only switch hitter in MLB history to reach a .300 BA and 400 HR. The 1999 NL MVP also won the Batting Title in 2008. An eight-time All-Star and 1995 World Series champion, Chipper entered the Hall of Fame in 2018. Between Chipper and the Hall of Fame pitching trio of Maddux-Smoltz-Glavine, Atlanta had a hell of a group…it’s too bad they only won one ring.
Texas: Clayton Kershaw
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Career Stats & Awards (through 2023 season): 210-92 (W/L), 2.48 ERA, 2944 SO, 1.004 WHIP, 3x NL Cy Young (2011, 2013-14), MVP (2014), World Series (2020), 79.9 WAR
Texas is home to two of the best pitchers of all-time — Clayton Kershaw and Greg Maddux. Maddux is an all-time great (four Cy Youngs, four ERA Titles, 18 Gold Gloves), but Kershaw is well on his way to becoming one of, if not the, best pitchers to ever play. Even in a down year by his standards, Kershaw went 16-5 with a 3.03 ERA in 2019. He is a three-time Cy Young winner, NL MVP, Triple Crown winner, five-time ERA champion and has a lifetime 2.48 ERA. It will be hard for Kershaw to pass Maddux in wins (355), but the lefty should finish his career with 3,000 strikeouts.
California: Barry Bonds
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Career Stats & Awards: .298/.444/.607, 2935 H, 762 HR, 1996 RBI, 2227 R, 514 SB, 7x NL MVP (1990, 1992-93, 2001-04), 2x Batting Title (2002, 2004), 162.8 WAR
The talent coming out of California is endless — Randy Johnson, Ted Williams and Joe DiMaggio to name a few — but topping the list is Barry Bonds, arguably the greatest baseball player of all-time. Bonds’ numbers are ridiculous — .298 BA, 762 HR, 1,996 RBI, 2,935 H, and 2,558 BB (688 of which were intentional). What people tend to forget, however, is that Bonds was not one-dimensional. He stole 514 bases and won eight Gold Gloves in addition to leading the league in hitting twice, winning 12 Silver Sluggers, and seven NL MVPs. He may never enter the Hall of Fame, but the Hall of Fame cannot erase Bonds’ legacy.
