The MLB's Most Stacked Positions: Unlocking the Secrets of the Diamond
The MLB's lineup is a chessboard of talent, but some positions reign supreme. Spring Training is the annual battleground where players vie for their spots, but what if we pit the positions themselves against each other? Let's dive into the hottest debates and uncover the most stacked positions in baseball, with a twist of controversy.
Following the MLB Network's ranking of the top 10 players at each position, we embark on a journey to explore the deepest talent pools and those in need of a boost. But here's where it gets controversial: we'll rank these positions from strongest to most vulnerable, with a unique twist.
1. Shortstops: The Golden Age
The MLB Network's top 10 shortstops are a force to be reckoned with, led by Bobby Witt Jr. and Corey Seager. But the depth doesn't stop there. Last season, an impressive 19 shortstops achieved at least three wins above replacement (WAR), setting a new record. The position's upward trend continues with Jacob Wilson and Colson Montgomery's impressive AL Rookie of the Year voting finishes.
And here's the kicker: seven of the top 10 and all of the top five players on MLB Pipeline's Top 100 Prospects list are shortstops, including Konnor Griffin and Kevin McGonigle. This golden age of shortstops shows no signs of slowing down, with young talent ready to debut and dominate.
2. Third Basemen: A New Generation
The top 10 third basemen feature seasoned veterans like José Ramírez and Max Muncy, but the spotlight shines on 22-year-old Junior Caminero, who emerged with 45 homers and 28 doubles last season. Bo Bichette's move to the infield adds to the intrigue. FanGraphs projects third base to have more three-plus WAR players than any other position, except shortstop.
However, there's a shortage of true third-base stars, and some clubs have struggled to fill the position this winter. The Mariners, with All-Star Brendan Donovan and top prospect Colt Emerson, are an intriguing team to watch, as they aim to strengthen their third-base depth.
3. Right Fielders: A Generational Shift
The right field position boasts a talented top 10, including Aaron Judge and Juan Soto. However, Soto's recent move to left field shakes up the rankings. Despite this, the position remains strong, with players like Ronald Acuña Jr. and Fernando Tatis Jr. only ranked fifth and sixth.
Boston's Roman Anthony, who played primarily in left field, accrued 3.1 bWAR in 71 games before an injury. The position saw an increase in players worth three-plus WAR, and prospects like Dylan Beavers and Dylan Crews could further bolster the right field argument.
4. First Basemen: A Power Surge
First base experienced a resurgence in 2025, with nine players meeting the three-plus WAR standard, including Jonathan Aranda. Nick Kurtz had a monster rookie year, while Matt Olson, Bryce Harper, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. showcased their power.
Keep an eye on Reds prospect Sal Stewart and White Sox acquisition Munetaka Murakami, who brings his big power from Japan. The position is stacked with talent, and the competition is fierce.
5. Relief Pitchers: Quality vs. Quantity
Relief pitching has become a prominent aspect of the game, with 49 pitchers achieving at least 40 innings and an ERA+ at least 50% better than the league average last season. However, when it comes to higher impact, the numbers dwindle.
Only 10 relievers met the criteria of 54 innings and an ERA+ of at least 200 in 2025, one of the lowest totals in recent memory. The quantity of quality relievers is high, but true, durable studs are relatively scarce. Teams' reliance on their best relievers during deep October runs further exacerbates this issue.
6. Left Fielders: Youth and Potential
The left field position features a mix of established players and rising stars. Roman Anthony and Jarren Duran lead the way, with Cody Bellinger and Riley Greene adding depth. Wyatt Langford and Tyler Soderstrom, both 24, had impressive OPS+ marks last season.
While left field lacks superstardom compared to the other outfield corner, this young crop of players has the potential to change that. The position is ripe for a breakout, and the competition is wide open.
7. Catchers: Impact Players, Limited Depth
Catchers had a significant impact in 2025, with Cal Raleigh hitting 60 homers and William Contreras leading the Brewers to the best record. However, finding catchers who can deliver consistently while suiting up regularly remains a challenge.
Only two catchers were worth four bWAR last year, and catchers as a whole have struggled offensively in recent seasons. The position is stacked with talent, but depth is a concern.
8. Second Basemen: A Lean Year
Second base had a lean year in 2025, with only six players worth three-plus bWAR. While the position features talented players like Ketel Marte and Jazz Chisholm Jr., it is lighter on depth compared to other infield positions.
Jackson Holliday, Cardinals top prospect JJ Wetherholt, and 2024 Draft pick Travis Bazzana are names to watch, but second base could use a boost in overall talent.
9. Starting Pitchers: Health Concerns
The starting pitcher position is led by two-time AL Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal and reigning NL Cy winner Paul Skenes. However, health concerns are a recurring theme, with Zack Wheeler rehabbing from surgery and Chris Sale pitching limited innings last year.
The tradition of starters setting the tone is under threat, as teams often resort to bullpen games during the season and playoffs due to injury concerns. The young guns slotted for Opening Day rotation spots, like Nolan McLean and Trey Yesavage, will need to step up to restore the glory of starting pitching.
10. Designated Hitters: Extending Careers
The designated hitter position has seen a shift with the universal DH, extending the careers of former MVPs like Mike Trout, Christian Yelich, and Giancarlo Stanton. The position is fulfilling its promise, but the move to the universal DH has slightly watered down the talent pool.
A healthy season from Yordan Alvarez and strong performances from players like Brent Rooker and Yandy Díaz would further solidify the position's importance.
11. Center Fielders: Depth and Consistency Issues
Center field is a position of intrigue, with Julio Rodríguez and Byron Buxton leading the way. However, the position lacks depth and consistency, with only seven players achieving three-plus WAR seasons last year, the lowest total since 1962.
Luis Robert Jr., Justin Crawford, and Chase DeLauter are prospects to watch, as they aim to make their mark on contenders. The position is stacked with talent, but depth and consistency remain areas of concern.
And there you have it, a comprehensive look at the most stacked positions in baseball, with a twist of controversy. Which position do you think is truly the most stacked? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let's keep the baseball conversation going!
