Top 10 MLB Players by Position in 2026 — Keystone First

This article breaks down MLB Network’s annual Top 10 Players Right Now series as it relates specifically to second basemen. It highlights how analytics, recent performance, and expert evaluation shaped the 2025 rankings.

With familiar stars holding their ground and a few notable risers and newcomers, the list offers a revealing snapshot of how the position is evolving across Major League Baseball. There’s a lot to take in, honestly.

MLB Network’s Top 10 Players Right Now Series Explained

Every winter, MLB Network rolls out one of its most anticipated features: the Top 10 Players Right Now series. The network spreads the rankings across ten shows, focusing on the best players at each position using both traditional stats and advanced metrics.

The 2025 edition kicked off with second basemen. Episodes will air from Jan. 27 through Feb. 10, all in the evenings Eastern Time.

The idea is simple—figure out who truly stands out right now, not just by reputation but by what they’ve actually done lately. It’s a refreshing approach, really.

Why Second Base Is Under the Microscope

Second base has become one of baseball’s most dynamic spots. Teams now expect offensive versatility, defensive range, and real baserunning value from their second basemen.

This year’s rankings show just how well-rounded the top guys have become. It’s a tough crowd to crack.

Ketel Marte Reigns Supreme Once Again

Ketel Marte of the Arizona Diamondbacks sits at the top, ranked No. 1 for the second straight year and the fourth time overall. Marte’s case is about as strong as it gets.

Since the start of 2024, he’s posted a 149 wRC+, which is the sixth-best mark in all of MLB during that stretch. That kind of offense, paired with steady defense, keeps Marte as the gold standard for the position.

He’s not the flashiest, but his consistency keeps him ahead of a pretty talented group. It’s hard to argue with the results.

Rising Stars and Familiar Names Round Out the Top Five

The biggest mover near the top is Jazz Chisholm Jr., now with the New York Yankees. He jumps from fifth last year to No. 2, showing off his growing impact and the bigger stage in the Bronx.

Nico Hoerner of the Chicago Cubs makes a big leap, climbing five spots to No. 3 after grabbing his second career Gold Glove. Defense really mattered this year, and Hoerner’s glove work put him firmly among the elite.

Veterans Holding Their Ground

Brendan Donovan (Cardinals) comes in at No. 4, while Marcus Semien—now with the Mets—lands at No. 5. Both were top-ranked last year, too.

Steady production still earns respect, even as analytics get more attention. There’s something to be said for just showing up and getting it done year after year.

Experience, Declines, and New Faces in the Back Half

The rest of the list mixes experience with emerging talent:

• No. 6 – Jose Altuve (Astros): Still productive, but he’s not quite the force he used to be.
• No. 7 – Gleyber Torres (Tigers): After falling out of last year’s top 10, Torres is trying to reestablish himself in a new setting.

Newcomers Making Their Mark

Two new faces crack the list this year. Xavier Edwards of the Marlins debuts at No. 8, and Brice Turang of the Brewers lands at No. 10.

Both finished last season with:

• .280 or better batting average
• At least 20 stolen bases
• Strong defensive metrics

Brandon Lowe (Pirates) rounds out the rankings at No. 9. He offers solid all-around value, even if he doesn’t always grab headlines.

What These Rankings Tell Us

MLB.com’s Brian Murphy points out that this year’s second-base rankings show how the position relies on a mix of offense, defense, and athleticism. Marte keeps delivering, Chisholm’s stock is rising, and Edwards and Turang are breaking through.

Second base feels more crowded and competitive than it has in years. Heading into the new season, that depth should make things interesting.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Ranking the top 10 players at every position, starting with keystone