Baseball is filled with larger-than-life stars, but not every player is someone you would want to tell kids to model themselves after. Luckily, plenty of guys still do it correctly, balancing talent, sportsmanship, and work ethic.
These players hustle, stay humble, and bring the attitude that makes you proud to be a fan. If you are looking for some real role models on the diamond, this list is a great place to start.
20. Dansby Swanson
Dansby Swanson plays with a confidence that never crosses into arrogance. He is the type of teammate every young player should want to be.
19. George Springer
George Springer brings energy and joy to the field every single night. His hustle in the outfield and on the bases shows young fans how much effort matters. Yes, being a part of the sign-stealing Astros wasn’t great, but he’s still easy to root for.
18. Bryan Reynolds
Bryan Reynolds is the quiet grinder who goes out and does his job correctly. He reminds everyone that you do not have to be loud to be great.
17. Luis Arraez
Luis Arraez treats every at-bat like it could be the most important one of the game. His approach at the plate shows young fans the power of patience and consistency.
16. Nico Hoerner
Nico Hoerner is a team-first player who will do anything to help his club win. He plays with heart, hustle, and a genuine love for the game.
15. Zac Gallen
Zac Gallen pitches with a mix of poise and fire that young players should admire. He never looks rattled and always carries himself like a true professional.
14. Freddie Freeman
Freddie Freeman always plays the game with a smile and treats everyone around him with respect. He is a perfect example of competing at a high level without losing your love for the game.
13. Adley Rutschman
Adley Rutschman already looks like a future face of baseball with his leadership and all-around game. He carries himself with maturity way beyond his years.
12. Bo Bichette
Bo Bichette plays like he has the time of his life, and works like someone who knows nothing is guaranteed. Young fans should want to emulate his blend of flash and focus.
11. Shane Bieber
Shane Bieber brings a professional approach to the mound every time out. He proves that steady improvement and focus can turn you into a star.
10. Julio Rodríguez
Julio Rodríguez brings so much joy and swagger to the game without ever making it about himself. He shows that loving what you do can be contagious.
9. Austin Riley
Austin Riley quietly gets better every year and never seems to seek the spotlight. His attitude and effort make him an ideal role model for young players.
8. José Ramírez
José Ramírez plays with intensity, hustle, and a constant smile. He shows you can be tough and clutch and enjoy every second on the field.
7. Mookie Betts
Mookie Betts is the rare player who can do it all and still make it look effortless. He plays with a joyful energy that young fans can learn much from.
6. Kyle Tucker
Kyle Tucker lets his game do all the talking and carries himself like a true pro. He reminds young players that you don’t need to be flashy to be effective.
5. Aaron Judge
Aaron Judge plays the game with the humility and leadership you rarely see in a superstar. His combination of power and grace makes him someone every young fan should admire.
4. Shohei Ohtani
Shohei Ohtani shows what is possible when you dream big and work even harder. He plays both sides of the game at the highest level and remains humble.
3. Ronald Acuña Jr.
Ronald Acuña Jr. brings electric energy to the game, making it even more fun to watch. He plays hard, smiles often, and reminds everyone that baseball should be exciting.
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2. Corbin Carroll
Corbin Carroll plays the game like every inning is his last chance to make a difference. His work ethic and fearless style are everything a young fan should look up to.
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1. Mike Trout
Mike Trout is the gold standard for handling greatness with grace. He has been the best player in the world for years without ever acting like he was bigger than the game.
