Baseball is a game of confidence, but some players didn’t just toe the line between swagger and self-absorption—they sprinted past it. From on-field antics to media soundbites that would make even their teammates roll their eyes, these MLB stars were never short on ego.
Whether it was admiring their own home runs a bit too long or reminding the world how great they were every time a microphone appeared, these guys made sure you knew exactly how impressed they were with themselves. Let’s take a stroll through the Hall of Fame of Hubris and rank the 15 most conceited MLB stars to ever step up to the plate.
15. Josh Donaldson
Donaldson played like he had something to prove and never let anyone forget it. Whether it was his bat flips or tense media moments, he carried himself like the main character in every stadium.
14. Alex Rodriguez
A-Rod was ridiculously talented, but he often looked like he knew it a little too much. From his flashy lifestyle to some wild interviews, humility wasn’t exactly his brand.
13. Manny Ramirez
Manny being Manny was equal parts hilarious and ego-driven. He could rake with the best of them, and he made sure the world paid attention while he did it.
12. Yasiel Puig
Puig played the game like it was a personal highlight reel. His antics in the outfield and celebrations on the basepaths sometimes outshined the scoreboard.
11. Rickey Henderson
Rickey didn’t need anyone else to hype him up—he was his own biggest fan. He spoke in the third person and once framed a million-dollar check instead of cashing it.
10. Trevor Bauer
From social media rants to self-made merch, Bauer made sure his voice was louder than his ERA. Love him or hate him, he’s never been one to back away from the spotlight.
9. Bryce Harper
Harper has settled into his stardom a bit more, but early in his career, the confidence was off the charts. He played with a chip on his shoulder and talked like he already belonged in Cooperstown.
8. Reggie Jackson
They didn’t call him “Mr. October” for nothing—and he loved the nickname. Reggie once said, “I’m the straw that stirs the drink,” and that about sums it up.
7. José Canseco
Canseco didn’t just crave attention—he chased it like a fastball in the zone. From home run celebrations to wild post-retirement claims, he always kept the spotlight on himself.
6. Carlos Gómez
Gómez was a walking, talking fireworks show. He bat-flipped singles and turned routine catches into circus acts, all with a grin that said “you’re welcome.”
5. Curt Schilling
Schilling never missed a chance to remind the world of his greatness. He was loud, proud, and absolutely convinced that every big moment had his name on it.
4. Barry Bonds
Bonds’ greatness was undeniable, and so was his attitude. From icy media interactions to a towering self-belief, he wore his ego like eye black.
3. Brian Wilson
Wilson’s ego wasn’t just about performance—it was a whole performance. The beard, the interviews, the weird—he made himself a character as much as a closer.
Read More: The 15 Most Unapologetic Players in MLB History
2. Roger Clemens
Clemens was dominant, but he also played with the intensity of someone constantly trying to prove he was the alpha in every room. He didn’t do humble, and he didn’t do apologies.
Read More: 15 Most Boastful MLB Stars of All Time
1. Nick Swisher
Swisher was like a frat guy who made it to the big leagues and brought the party with him. His “bro” energy, constant self-promotion, and volume level could drown out the national anthem.
