Ranking the 20 Best MLB Players of the 1970s

The 1970s was a golden era for Major League Baseball. With the emergence of iconic stars, fierce rivalries, and unforgettable World Series moments, this decade featured some absolutely incredible players. Here’s a ranking of the 20 best MLB players of the 1970s.

20. Jim Palmer

A model of consistency throughout his career, Jim Palmer won three Cy Young Awards in the 1970s. Not to mention, his ability to pitch deep into games was unmatched.

19. Lou Brock

Lou Brock was the stolen base king of the 1970s. In fact, his ability to get on base basically whenever he wanted was a cornerstone of the Cardinals’ offense.

18. Joe Morgan

Joe Morgan was the engine of Cincinnati’s Big Red Machine. And, his back-to-back MVP awards in 1975 and 1976 cemented his legacy as one of the greatest second basemen ever.

17. Nolan Ryan

Nolan Ryan was known for his record-breaking fastball and strikeout dominance throughout the 1970s. There’s no question he was one of the most feared pitchers of the decade.

16. Rod Carew

Few players in history have been as consistent at the plate as Rod Carew. In fact, he managed to win seven batting titles in the 1970s.

15. Gaylord Perry

Known for his spitball, Gaylord Perry won two Cy Young Awards during the 1970s. He is certainly considered to be one of the most successful pitchers of his era.

14. Tom Seaver

Tom Seaver, known as “Tom Terrific,” was truly excellent on the mound. He won two Cy Young Awards and led the National League in ERA multiple times during the decade.

13. Steve Carlton

Steve Carlton dominated the 1970s with his pitching. In fact, his performance in the 1972 season where he won 27 games for a last-place Phillies team is still one of the greatest individual pitching feats in MLB history.

12. Reggie Jackson

Reggie Jackson earned the nickname “Mr. October” thanks to his clutch postseason performances. In fact, he hit three home runs in Game 6 of the 1977 World Series. Doesn’t get more clutch than that!

11. Catfish Hunter

Catfish Hunter was the ace of the Oakland A’s dynasty that won three consecutive World Series titles. Simply put, his ability to pitch in big games makes him one of the best of his era.

10. Mike Schmidt

While Mike Schmidt’s prime extended beyond the 1970s, he really emerged as a power-hitter during this decade. Not to mention, his defensive ability was also top-notch.

9. Johnny Bench

Johnny Bench revolutionized the catcher position throughout this decade. And, as a two-time MVP in the 1970s, he was the heart and soul of Cincinnati’s Big Red Machine.

8. Pete Rose

Pete Rose led the league in hits multiple times during the decade. And, as the all-time hit king, his legacy will live on forever.

7. Carl Yastrzemski

A consistent offensive force throughout the 1970s, Carl Yastrzemski was one of the league’s most feared hitters. In fact, he was a major reason why the Red Sox were good during this time.

6. Willie Stargell

Willie Stargell was the leader of the Pittsburgh Pirates and best known for hitting incredible home runs. Not to mention, he also won a World Series and an MVP award during this decade.

5. Brooks Robinson

Brooks Robinson is widely regarded as one of the best third basemen of all time. His consistent play made him an instant legend for the Orioles.

4. George Brett

There’s no question George Brett was one of the most complete hitters of the 1970s. Not to mention, his 1979 season, where he nearly had a .400 batting average, remains one of the best offensive campaigns in MLB history.

3. Hank Aaron

Though much of Hank Aaron’s career spanned earlier decades, he still remained an elite player in the 1970s. And, his record-breaking 715th home run in 1974 solidified his place as one of the greatest of all time.

2. Thurman Munson

Known for his clutch hitting and great defense, Thurman Munson was the heart of the Yankees’ resurgence in the late 1970s. He managed to win two World Series titles before his passing in 1979.

1. Roberto Clemente

Though Roberto Clemente’s career tragically ended in 1972, what he managed to do in just a couple of years is unparalleled. He was a great hitter and had an amazing arm, but he was also an incredible humanitarian who cared about other people.