The Most Famous Baseball Player of All Time, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the baseball player you think is the most famous!

Updated on Apr 28, 2024 07:03

Baseball enthusiasts often debate the credentials of the stars who've shined on the diamond to claim the title of the most famous baseball player. Such rankings not only highlight the career achievements and flair of these athletes but also bridge generations of fans. Each fan carries personal memories and biases, making objective discussions tricky yet vastly intriguing. By participating in voting for the top baseball players, fans contribute to a collective historical record that reflects more than just statistics. It's an opportunity to celebrate different eras of baseball, recognizing the heroes known for their batting prowess or pitching skills. This type of polling generates engaging discussions and brings the community together in appreciation of the sport's rich legacy.

Who Is the Most Famous Baseball Player of All Time?

1

46
votes
Charles M. Conlon · Public domain

Babe Ruth

Considered one of the greatest baseball players of all time, Ruth was a legendary slugger who changed the game forever. He set numerous records during his career and was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1936.
Babe Ruth in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous MLB player
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous Boston Red Sox player
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous person in the Hall of Fame
- Position 4 of 10 in Most famous ambidextrous person
- Position 6 of 10 in Most famous person from Maryland
- Position 10 of 10 in Most famous person in the Northeastern region
2

25
votes
Photo by Bob Sandberg Look photographer · Public domain

Jackie Robinson

Robinson broke the color barrier in baseball when he signed with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947. He faced intense racism and discrimination, but his incredible talent and determination helped him become one of the most important figures in American sports history.
Jackie Robinson in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous MLB player
- Position 5 of 10 in Most famous person in the Hall of Fame
- Position 6 of 10 in Most famous person from Georgia
3

18
votes
Unknown authorUnknown author · Public domain

Hank Aaron

Aaron was one of the most consistent and dominant players in baseball history. He held the record for most home runs in a career for over 30 years and was a 25-time All-Star.
Hank Aaron in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous celebrity from Alabama
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous MLB player
4

23
votes
New York World-Telegram and the Sun staff photographer, William C. Greene · Public domain

Willie Mays

Mays was an amazing all-around player who had a long and successful career. He won two MVP awards and was a 24-time All-Star.
Willie Mays in other rankings
- Position 4 of 10 in Most famous MLB player
5

17
votes
University Archives—Columbiana Library, Columbia University. · Public domain

Lou Gehrig

Gehrig was a legendary first baseman who played for the New York Yankees in the 1920s and 1930s. He was known for his incredible durability and consistency, and his record of playing in 2,130 consecutive games stood for over 50 years.
Lou Gehrig in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous person with ALS
- Position 7 of 10 in Most famous MLB player
6

12
votes
International Film Service · Public domain

Ty Cobb

Cobb was a fiery and controversial player who was one of the most dominant hitters of his era. He won 12 batting titles and had a lifetime batting average of .366.
Ty Cobb in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous Detroit Tigers player
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous Detroit Tiger
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous person from Augusta, Georgia
- Position 5 of 10 in Most famous person from Georgia
7

7
votes
Bowman Gum · Public domain

Mickey Mantle

Mantle was a powerful switch-hitter who played for the New York Yankees in the 1950s and 1960s. He won three MVP awards and was a 20-time All-Star.
Mickey Mantle in other rankings
- Position 5 of 10 in Most famous person with the number seven
8

9
votes

Charles M. Conlon · Public domain

Cy Young

Young was one of the greatest pitchers of all time and holds the record for most career wins with 511. He also won an incredible five ERA titles during his career.
9

6
votes
derivative work: Amineshaker (talk) Image:Nolan_Ryan_in_Atlanta.jpg: Wahkeenah · Public domain

Nolan Ryan

Ryan was a dominant pitcher who played for over 25 seasons. He holds the record for most career strikeouts with 5,714 and also threw seven no-hitters.
Nolan Ryan in other rankings
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous cowboy in Texas
- Position 4 of 10 in Most famous Astros player
10

4
votes
Daniel Hartwig · CC BY 2.0

Derek Jeter

Jeter was the captain of the New York Yankees during their dynasty in the late 1990s and early 2000s. He was a 14-time All-Star and won five Gold Glove awards during his career.
Derek Jeter in other rankings
- Position 3 of 10 in Most attractive baseball player
- Position 5 of 10 in Most famous MLB player

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Ranking factors for famous baseball player

Performance

A player's actual on-field performance is a key factor in any ranking. This includes individual statistics, accolades, and impact on their team's success.
Popularity

A player's popularity and cultural impact can also play a significant role in their ranking. This includes factors such as fan voting, media coverage, endorsements, and overall cultural relevance.
Historical Context

The era in which a player played can also be a factor, as the game has changed over time. Adjusting for historical context can help ensure that players from different eras are being compared fairly.
Cross-sport Appeal

Finally, some players are so famous that they transcend their sport and become cultural icons. Factors such as global recognition, influence on pop culture, and crossover appeal to non-sports fans can also be considered.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous baseball player of all time. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or player is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

1984 views
167 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each player once every 24 hours. The rank of each player is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most famous baseball player of all time

Baseball is a beloved sport in America, and it has produced some of the most iconic and celebrated athletes of all time. Throughout the years, fans have admired, cheered, and even idolized these baseball players for their skills, dedication, and achievements on the field. But when it comes to determining the most famous baseball player of all time, the answer is not always easy. Many factors come into play, such as the era in which they played, their personal charisma, and their impact on the game. From Babe Ruth to Jackie Robinson, from Lou Gehrig to Derek Jeter, there are numerous candidates vying for the title of the most famous baseball player of all time. So, who do you think deserves this coveted position? Cast your vote and let your voice be heard on StrawPoll.