Baseball might have its fair share of hotheads and bat-flippers, but some players choose a different path—one paved with class, kindness, and quiet leadership. These are the guys who shake hands with umpires, compliment rookies, and make every dugout a little more welcoming.
They’re the calm in a storm, the ones who never show up the other team, and the players who earn respect across every clubhouse in the league. Let’s take a look at the 15 most gentlemanly MLB players in history—guys who proved you can be competitive without ever losing your cool.
15. Dale Murphy
Murphy was known as one of the nicest guys in the game, even while putting up big numbers in the ‘80s. He let his bat do the talking and his character do the lasting impression.
14. Mark McGwire
Say what you will about the home run era, but McGwire treated the game and his opponents with respect. Even at the height of his fame, he stayed soft-spoken and courteous.
13. David Wright
Wright was the ultimate team-first guy in Queens—always humble, always respectful. He led by example and earned the admiration of just about everyone he played with or against.
12. Paul Molitor
Molitor had the quiet confidence of a pro who didn’t need to talk trash to get results. He played with class and handled every situation with a cool head.
11. Ichiro Suzuki
Ichiro brought grace to the game, both in his batting stance and in how he treated everyone around him. He was respectful to opponents, fans, and the game itself, every single day.
10. Todd Helton
Helton was a steady presence in Colorado and one of the most universally liked players in the league. He let others have the spotlight and focused on doing things the right way.
9. Roberto Clemente
Clemente was known not just for his immense talent, but for his compassion and sportsmanship. He played with heart and never lost sight of his responsibility to others.
8. Don Mattingly
Even during his peak, Mattingly stayed grounded and gracious. He played hard but never dirty, and his respect for the game earned him respect in return.
7. Jim Thome
Thome had a massive swing and an even bigger heart. Teammates, coaches, and opponents all had the same thing to say: he was just a good guy through and through.
6. Jackie Robinson
Robinson’s courage is legendary, but so is the grace with which he carried himself. He endured more than most could imagine, yet remained respectful, composed, and dignified every step of the way.
5. Tony Gwynn
Gwynn loved the game and it showed in everything he did. He always had time for fans, never disrespected his opponents, and played with joy instead of ego.
4. Derek Jeter
Jeter was a pro in every sense of the word—polished, respectful, and totally unshakable. He handled pressure, media, and rivalries with a calm that made him the ultimate statesman for the sport.
3. Mariano Rivera
Rivera was as dominant as they come, but he was never one to boast. He let his cutter do the talking and handled every save, loss, and handshake with humility.
2. Cal Ripken Jr.
Ripken was the model of consistency and professionalism. He played every game like it mattered and treated everyone—rookies, stars, and staff alike—with kindness.
Read More: The 18 Most Respected Players in MLB History
1. Hank Aaron
Aaron not only broke records—he broke barriers with dignity and strength. Despite facing relentless hate, he never lashed out, earning him the deepest respect from generations of fans and players.
Read More: 15 MLB Stars Who Were the Opposite of Divas
