#1
of 20
Mike Schmidt
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Schmidt is the undisputed standard at third base because he combined elite power with elite longevity at a premium defensive position. He hit 548 home runs while playing virtually his entire career at third, which is extraordinary for the era. His OPS+ consistently reflected dominance rather than inflation from ballparks or lineup context. He walked at high rates, keeping his OBP strong even when batting averages dipped. He won three MVP awards and had multiple other seasons worthy of the honor. His power was not empty; it translated into real run creation and postseason success. He delivered major October moments, including a World Series MVP performance. When you blend peak dominance, longevity, and positional difficulty, Schmidt stands alone at the top.
Career Numbers
.267
AVG
2,234
Hits
548
HR
1,595
RBI
174
SB
.908
OPS
Mike Schmidt at No. 1
Mike Schmidt is ranked 1 of 20 on the Top 20 Third Basemen in History of MLB Baseball list. The career card for Mike Schmidt shows 2,234 hits, 548 home runs and 1,595 RBI, with a .267 average. The card also lists a .908 OPS and 174 stolen bases. Mike Schmidt debuted in the 1970s, and the Explore links below open that decade's page and the list of players born in USA. Eddie Mathews follows at 2. The ranking and the write-up above it are the list's editorial judgment; the career numbers come from the same tables as the player pages.