Baseball has always been a sport that reveres its elder statesmen—those players who not only put together long, productive careers but also earned the admiration of teammates, opponents, and fans alike. These veterans were more than just stat-sheet stuffers; they were clubhouse leaders, role models, and living proof that you could age gracefully in a game defined by failure.
Some were iron men who stuck around for decades. Others left such a lasting impression that their presence alone elevated an entire franchise. From quiet legends to vocal captains, here are 20 of the most respected veterans in baseball history.
20. Jim Kaat
Jim Kaat pitched in parts of four decades and never stopped being a professional’s professional. Teammates respected his work ethic, and opponents knew he always came prepared.
19. Torii Hunter
Torii Hunter brought energy, leadership, and defense everywhere he went. He was the glue guy in every clubhouse and had a knack for mentoring younger players.
18. Julio Franco
Julio Franco somehow made it to the big leagues in four different decades. His dedication to health, fitness, and the craft of hitting made him a role model for generations.
17. Jamie Moyer
Jamie Moyer didn’t throw hard, but he threw forever. He outlasted plenty of power pitchers by knowing how to pitch and lead.
16. David Ross
“Grandpa Rossy” became a cult hero late in his career, but his veteran presence always carried weight. He was the perfect teammate and the kind of catcher pitchers trusted instinctively.
15. C.C. Sabathia
C.C. grew into a clubhouse leader over time, blending authenticity with wisdom. His transformation from a power pitcher to a crafty veteran earned respect across the league.
14. Mark Buehrle
Mark Buehrle wasn’t flashy, but he was consistent, dependable, and well-liked by everyone. His no-nonsense demeanor made him a quiet anchor in every rotation.
13. Chase Utley
Nicknamed “The Man” in Philly for a reason, Chase Utley played hard, said little, and let his actions speak for themselves. Opponents may not have loved playing against him, but they respected the hell out of him.
12. Andy Pettitte
Andy Pettitte had the kind of calm, veteran presence teams dream of in October. He never sought the spotlight but always delivered in the big moments.
11. Tim Wakefield
Knuckleballers are already unicorns, but Tim Wakefield was also a rare breed of teammate. His loyalty to Boston and willingness to do whatever the team needed made him beloved in every dugout.
10. Darren Oliver
Darren Oliver flew under the radar, but he played for three decades and was considered one of the most respected teammates in baseball. He embraced every role and did it with class.
9. Ichiro Suzuki
Ichiro brought a meticulous, zen-like discipline to the game. Even in his 40s, teammates watched him with the awe of someone who had mastered his craft.
8. Bartolo Colon
Big Sexy was more than just a fan favorite—he was a baseball lifer who kept things light but always competed. His durability and reinvention late in his career were quietly admirable.
7. Jason Giambi
Jason Giambi’s leadership extended well beyond the box score. Younger teammates gravitated toward him, and his honesty and openness made him a locker room favorite.
6. Albert Pujols
Pujols had one of the greatest peaks ever, but his career longevity and mentorship made him a revered veteran in his later years. He gave back to the game as much as he took from it.
5. Miguel Cabrera
Miggy’s joy, work ethic, and hitting ability made him a clubhouse legend. Everyone respected how he carried himself through the ups and downs.
4. Cal Ripken Jr.
Iron Man defined what it meant to show up, do your job, and earn respect daily. He never made it about him, which made him beloved.
3. Mariano Rivera
There may never be a more respected closer than Mariano. He let his cutter—and his humility—do all the talking.
Read More: 15 NFL Veterans Who Led by Example, Not Volume
2. Clayton Kershaw
Kershaw’s blend of greatness and groundedness has made him universally admired. He’s a once-in-a-generation talent who still feels like the guy next door.
Read More: 10 Veteran Golfers Who’ve Become Mentors to the Next Generation
1. Derek Jeter
Jeter was the blueprint for what it meant to be a respected veteran. He led by example, treated everyone with dignity, and made it cool to be all class, all the time.
Read More: 15 MLB Veterans Who Took Young Teammates Under Their Wing
