OT - Best 3B ever?

[Peter_Spaeth]

If Miggy doesn't pull a Pujols, in a few years this may be worth revisiting.

[the 'stache]

Originally Posted by Peter_Spaeth

If Miggy doesn't pull a Pujols, in a few years this may be worth revisiting.

I respectfully disagree, Peter, only because Cabrera won't have the amount of time played at third base to really merit inclusion in this type of discussion.

He's played 1,630 games in his career, of which 686 have been played at third. With Prince Fielder's trade to Texas, Cabrera will be moving back to first, and Nick Castellanos will be given every opportunity to become Detroit's full-time third baseman.

Cabrera is a spectacular offensive force, you'll get no argument from me there. But he's never been more than an acceptable defender. Even if he'd played almost exclusively at third throughout his career, I don't know if his offense alone would be enough to usurp Schmidt's spot atop the list. But it would make for an interesting analysis, for sure.

[tedzan]

I must admit I'm biased, since I'm a Phillies and Yankees fan.....Schmidt is the man.

All the other 3rd baseman mentioned here are greats; but, Mike Schmidt wins this contest in the all-around ballplayer category.





TED Z

[Peter_Spaeth]

Originally Posted by the 'stache

I respectfully disagree, Peter, only because Cabrera won't have the amount of time played at third base to really merit inclusion in this type of discussion.

He's played 1,630 games in his career, of which 686 have been played at third. With Prince Fielder's trade to Texas, Cabrera will be moving back to first, and Nick Castellanos will be given every opportunity to become Detroit's full-time third baseman.

Cabrera is a spectacular offensive force, you'll get no argument from me there. But he's never been more than an acceptable defender. Even if he'd played almost exclusively at third throughout his career, I don't know if his offense alone would be enough to usurp Schmidt's spot atop the list. But it would make for an interesting analysis, for sure.

I was under the impression he had played more at third. Given that he has not, and will be moving to first, he probably should not be considered. But I would forgive his average defense if he continues to put up those numbers.

[ls7plus]

Schmidt, with no one else even reasonably close, IMHO.

Happy collecting,

Larry