Ranking the Best MLB Players of the 1980s

The 1980s was a fun time for Major League Baseball. Many legendary players brought excitement and talent to the game. Let’s look at the top 10 players who stood out during the decade.

Dwight Gooden

Dwight “Doc” Gooden became a star when he joined the New York Mets in 1984. He won the NL Rookie of the Year award that year and the Cy Young Award in 1985, with an incredible 1.53 ERA and 268 strikeouts. Gooden’s powerful fastball and sharp curveball made him one of the best pitchers of the decade.

Dale Murphy

Dale Murphy was one of the top power hitters of the 1980s, winning back-to-back NL MVP awards in 1982 and 1983. He was known for his home run power, solid defense, and leadership of the Atlanta Braves. Murphy’s hard work and consistent performance made him one of the most respected players of the decade.

Tony Gwynn

Tony Gwynn was known for his excellent hitting, leading the league in batting average multiple times in the 1980s. He won four batting titles during the decade and was famous for his ability to make contact and hit the ball to all parts of the field. Gwynn’s career batting average of .338 proves his hitting prowess.

George Brett

George Brett was one of the best all-around hitters of the 1980s. He could hit for both average and power, and he won the AL MVP award in 1980 while hitting .390—the closest anyone has come to a .400 average since Ted Williams. Brett was a tough competitor and helped the Kansas City Royals win their first World Series in 1985.

Wade Boggs

Wade Boggs was one of the best hitters of the 1980s, with a batting average of .352 during the decade. He won five batting titles and was great at getting on base for the Boston Red Sox. Boggs was known for his disciplined approach and his ability to hit the ball to all parts of the field.

Ozzie Smith

Ozzie Smith, known as “The Wizard,” was famous for his amazing defense at shortstop. He won 13 straight Gold Glove Awards and was known for his incredible plays and range. Smith helped the St. Louis Cardinals win the 1982 World Series and was a fan favorite for his acrobatic skills.

Cal Ripken Jr.

Cal Ripken Jr. was known for his consistency, playing in every game from May 1982 onward, earning him the nickname “The Iron Man.” He won the 1983 AL MVP and helped the Baltimore Orioles win the World Series that year. Ripken was a great hitter and fielder at shortstop, changing how people thought about the position.

Nolan Ryan

Nolan Ryan, known as “The Ryan Express,” was an incredible pitcher in the 1980s. He led the league in strikeouts six times during the decade. Ryan was known for his powerful fastball and threw multiple no-hitters, pitching well into his 40s.

Rickey Henderson

Rickey Henderson was the best leadoff hitter and base stealer of the 1980s, stealing 838 bases during the decade. His speed, ability to get on base, and power made him an exciting player to watch. He won the AL MVP award in 1990 and set the single-season stolen base record with 130 steals in 1982.

Mike Schmidt

Mike Schmidt was one of the best power hitters of the 1980s, leading the league in home runs six times. He won three National League MVP awards, including back-to-back titles in 1980 and 1981. Schmidt was also excellent on defense, winning 10 Gold Glove Awards as a third baseman.