The 2010s were a golden era for Major League Baseball, featuring dominant superstars, statistical revolutions, and historic performances. From all-time great hitters to generational pitchers, this decade shaped the game in remarkable ways.
With a balance of peak performance, longevity, and impact on the sport, here’s a ranking of the 15 best MLB players from the 2010s.
15. José Altuve
A six-time All-Star and 2017 AL MVP, Altuve dominated the decade as one of the best contact hitters, winning three batting titles. Despite controversy surrounding the Astros’ sign-stealing scandal, his production and clutch postseason performances cement his legacy.
14. Clayton Kershaw
Arguably the best regular-season pitcher of the 2010s, Kershaw won three Cy Young Awards and the 2014 NL MVP. His 2.31 ERA across the decade was the lowest in baseball, and he remained the face of dominant Dodgers pitching.
13. Joey Votto
The 2010 NL MVP was a master of plate discipline, leading the decade in on-base percentage (.428). Votto’s ability to combine power, contact, and elite walk rates made him one of the most consistent offensive threats.
12. Zack Greinke
One of the most versatile and consistent pitchers, Greinke posted a Cy Young-winning 2009 season and carried that dominance into the 2010s. His 1.66 ERA in 2015 with the Dodgers was one of the decade’s best pitching seasons.
11. Chris Sale
With a wipeout slider and a deadly fastball, Sale became one of the best strikeout pitchers of the era. He led the decade in K/9 (11.1) and was a key part of Boston’s 2018 World Series title run.
10. Bryce Harper
One of the most hyped prospects in MLB history, Harper won two NL MVPs (2015, 2021) and had a massive impact on the game with his power and swagger. His 2015 season remains one of the greatest offensive years in modern baseball.
9. Yadier Molina
Molina was the decade’s most complete catcher, winning multiple Gold Gloves while leading the Cardinals to two World Series appearances, including a championship in 2011. His defense, leadership, and timely hitting set him apart.
8. Paul Goldschmidt
Goldy was an underrated force throughout the decade, finishing with six All-Star appearances and four top-three MVP finishes. His combination of power, consistency, and Gold Glove defense made him elite.
7. Miguel Cabrera
The only Triple Crown winner since 1967 (2012), Cabrera was one of the best pure hitters of all time. He won back-to-back MVPs in 2012 and 2013, cementing his place in baseball history.
6. Max Scherzer
A three-time Cy Young winner in the decade, Scherzer was the ultimate bulldog on the mound, striking out over 2,400 batters and leading the Nationals to their first-ever World Series title in 2019.
5. Buster Posey
Posey was the backbone of the Giants’ dynasty, leading them to three World Series titles in 2010, 2012, and 2014. He won the 2012 NL MVP and was the best all-around catcher of the decade.
4. Justin Verlander
A two-time Cy Young winner and the 2011 AL MVP, Verlander maintained elite performance deep into his career. His dominance helped the Astros win the 2017 World Series, and he continued to shine in the postseason.
3. Mookie Betts
The 2018 AL MVP was one of the best all-around players of the decade. With elite defense, power, speed, and a knack for big moments, Betts helped the Red Sox win the 2018 World Series and remains a superstar.
2. Robinson Canó
Canó was the best second baseman of the decade, providing elite hitting and smooth defense. His power and consistency made him an All-Star fixture, even as he switched teams.
1. Mike Trout
No debate here. Trout was the face of baseball in the 2010s, winning three AL MVPs and finishing in the top two seven times. His combination of power, speed, defense, and plate discipline made him one of the greatest players in history.
