The MLB's 2026 Season: Unveiling the Top 10 Third Basemen
As the baseball world gears up for the 2026 season, ESPN's Buster Olney is back with his annual positional rankings, and this time, we're focusing on the hot corner. But here's the twist: we're not just looking at who's hot right now; we're predicting the top players for the upcoming season.
The Legend of Jose Ramirez
Let's start with a bold statement: Jose Ramirez is on track to become one of the greatest third basemen in MLB history. Signed through 2032, Ramirez is a powerhouse with an impressive career trajectory. He's closing in on 300 career home runs and stolen bases, a feat that only a few have achieved. But is this enough to secure his place among the all-time greats?
Ramirez's numbers speak for themselves: a top-6 MVP finish seven times, six Silver Slugger awards, and nearly 2,000 career hits. ESPN's Tim Kurkjian believes Ramirez is a future Hall of Famer, and his impact on the Cleveland Guardians is undeniable. With his contract extension, he's set to become a franchise icon.
The Top 10 List Unveiled
Jose Ramirez (Cleveland Guardians): Ramirez's clutch hitting with runners in scoring position over the past two years solidifies his top spot.
Junior Caminero (Tampa Bay Rays): At just 22, Caminero smashed 45 homers last season, showcasing his raw power. His ability to crush fastballs is remarkable, but how will he adjust to a less hitter-friendly park this season?
Alex Bregman (Chicago Cubs): Despite Fenway Park not living up to expectations, Bregman's move to Wrigley Field could be a smooth transition. His exit velocity is on the rise, and his defensive skills make him a valuable asset.
Manny Machado (San Diego Padres): Machado is another rising star at third base. With over 400 career homers in sight and a high WAR, he's on the path to greatness.
Maikel Garcia (Kansas City Royals): Garcia's breakout season in 2025 saw him lead AL third basemen in defensive metrics and win the Gold Glove Award.
Matt Chapman (San Francisco Giants): A five-time Gold Glove winner, Chapman's WAR took a dip in 2025, but his plate discipline is improving, as evidenced by his reduced strikeout rate and increased walk rate.
Bo Bichette (New York Mets): Bichette's hitting prowess was on full display in the World Series. His transition from shortstop to third base presents defensive challenges, but he has the potential to excel.
Max Muncy (Los Angeles Dodgers): Muncy's focus and devastation against right-handed pitching earn him a spot on this list.
Austin Riley (Atlanta Braves): After core surgery in 2025, Riley is expected to return to his dominant form from 2021-2023, where he amassed an impressive WAR.
Carlos Correa (Houston Astros): Correa's leadership and past production make him a valuable asset for the Astros, despite concerns about his ankle.
Honorable Mentions and Controversies
- Jordan Westburg (Baltimore Orioles): A talented player with potential, but injuries are a concern.
- Addison Barger (Toronto Blue Jays): A rising star who impressed in the World Series, but his playing time may be affected by the signing of Kazuma Okamoto.
- Caleb Durbin (Boston Red Sox): A solid addition to the Red Sox's defensive strategy.
- Matt Shaw (Chicago Cubs): His defensive skills exceeded expectations, but he may see a reduced role with the arrival of Alex Bregman.
- Ke'Bryan Hayes (Cincinnati Reds): A defensive specialist who led all third basemen in key defensive metrics last season.
- Alec Bohm (Philadelphia Phillies): With free agency looming, Bohm's future is uncertain, especially with the Phillies' interest in Bo Bichette.
- Ryan McMahon (New York Yankees): McMahon's defense shines, but his offensive performance at Yankee Stadium didn't meet expectations.
- Eugenio Suarez (Cincinnati Reds): With Hayes' defensive prowess, Suarez is expected to take on more DH duties.
As we countdown to the 2026 season, these rankings are sure to spark debates. Who do you think will be the standout third baseman this year? Are Ramirez's achievements enough to place him among the all-time greats? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
