#2
of 20
Mike Piazza
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Piazza is the greatest pure offensive catcher in MLB history. His 143 career OPS+ across nearly 2,000 games behind the plate is outrageous separation from positional norms. He combined 30+ homer power with strong on-base ability and consistent averages. His bat would have played at first base, yet he delivered it from catcher. Defensive debates do not outweigh that offensive gap. If offense is weighted heavily, he has a real case for No. 1.
Career Numbers
.308
AVG
2,127
Hits
427
HR
1,335
RBI
17
SB
.922
OPS
Mike Piazza at No. 2
This slide covers number 2 of 20 in Top 20 Catchers in History of MLB Baseball: Mike Piazza. The career card for Mike Piazza shows 2,127 hits, 427 home runs and 1,335 RBI, with a .308 average. The card also lists a .922 OPS and 17 stolen bases. Mike Piazza debuted in the 1990s, and the Explore links below open that decade's page and the list of players born in USA. Johnny Bench is ranked just above at 1; Yogi Berra follows at 3. The order reflects the list's own criteria, set out in its introduction; the statistics are the site's standard career totals.