Hispanics make up 31.9 percent of the players in the Major Leagues in 2022.
But there was a time when players from countries such as the Dominican Republic, Venezuela, Puerto Rico and Cuba were not as prevalent on MLB teams. Such was the case when Roberto Clemente played for the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Who are the greatest Hispanic players in MLB history? How many who played back in the day belong on such a list?
Taking various lists under consideration – and excluding those tainted by the steroids scandal – here are our choices compiled by numerous lists put together by others in the media:
5. Juan Marichal (Dominican Republic)
The pitcher with the famous high kick recorded six 20-win seasons, had a career ERA of 2.89 and added 2,303 strikeouts. His overall record of 243-142 helped make him the first native of the Dominican Republic to make the Hall of Fame.
4. Rod Carew (Panama)
Two numbers to think about:
18 – consecutive All-Star appearances
.388 – batting average in 1977, at that point the highest average in a season since Ted Williams hit .406 in 1941.
3. Mariano Rivera (Panama)
Greatest relief pitcher in MLB history (652 saves) and only unanimous selection to the Hall of Fame. Sandman made the All-Star team 13 times and helped the Yankees advance to the playoffs 16 of his 19 seasons, including helping them win five World Series.
2. Roberto Clemente (Puerto Rico)
The honors are impressive: MLB All-Star 13 seasons, Gold Glove outfielder 12 seasons, NL MVP, four-time NL batting champion. The career numbers are just as impressive: 317 batting average, 3,000 hits, 240 home runs and 1,305 RBI. But to hear those who saw him play, he’s the best Hispanic player to ever play the game.
1. Albert Pujols (Dominican Republic)
He recently hit his 700th home run, joining only three others (Barry Bonds, Hank Aaron, Babe Ruth) in that exclusive club. He won three MVP awards and finished second four other times (twice behind Barry Bonds). The man known as “The Machine” has more than 3,000 hits, 2,000 RBI and a career batting average just below .300.