Let's talk about the grizzled veterans of baseball, those seasoned players who have left an indelible mark on the game. These are the guys we've watched age alongside us, their careers spanning decades and leaving an impact that goes beyond statistics.
The Unsung Heroes of Baseball's Aging Stars
As we head into the holiday season, there's a group of players, often overlooked, who still have a lot to offer. These are the 'old guys' of baseball, players aged 38 and above, who have seen it all and are still going strong. Here are 10 veterans who have defied the odds and might just have a few more tricks up their sleeves.
Paul Goldschmidt: A former NL MVP, Goldschmidt's star power might have faded, but his value as a first baseman remains. With a solid OPS and four Gold Gloves, he's a reliable option for any team, especially those missing out on the likes of Pete Alonso.
Martin: An unsung hero, Martin has pitched in 418 MLB games without ever starting one. His longevity is remarkable, having played for seven teams over 10 seasons. With a 2.98 ERA last year and a 1.05 ERA in 2023, he's a reliable reliever, and his AL Cy Young votes are a testament to his skill.
Andrew McCutchen: Returning to Pittsburgh after five seasons away, McCutchen is a franchise icon. While he might not win another MVP, his impact on the Pirates' offense is undeniable. A potential return for another season would be welcomed by fans and the league alike.
Tommy Pham: At 38, Pham is still going strong. He's a right-handed power bat off the bench, with an impressive OBP. He aims to reach 200 home runs and 200 stolen bases, a goal that might be ambitious but adds to his charm as a baseball character.
David Robertson: A veteran closer, Robertson has been the Yankees' go-to guy twice, including the challenging task of succeeding Mariano Rivera. After a break last year, he joined the Phillies, and with a solid postseason record, he could be a key bullpen asset again.
Carlos Santana: With a Gold Glove and a Silver Slugger, Santana has consistently gotten on base. Despite a dip in numbers last year, he's the active leader in walks and tied for 40th all-time. If he returns, he could surpass Hall of Famer Tim Raines in this category.
Max Scherzer: At 41, Scherzer reminded everyone in the postseason that he's still a force to be reckoned with. His regular-season stats might not reflect his true value, but his intimidating presence on the mound is undeniable.
Turner: Despite a less productive year with the Cubs, Turner has proven doubters wrong throughout his career. He aims to return in 2026, and with his track record, it's hard to bet against him.
Justin Verlander: Verlander's quest for 300 wins continues, and while it's a challenging goal, he's still a quality MLB starter. His September performance last year was exceptional, and he might just keep pitching until he reaches that milestone.
Yates: After a successful 2024 season, Yates struggled with injuries last year. If he can stay healthy, he still has a lot to offer as a reliever.
These players, often overlooked due to their age, bring a wealth of experience and wisdom to the game. Their stories are a testament to the beauty of baseball, where age is just a number and talent knows no bounds.
And this is the part most people miss: these veterans are not done yet. Their impact on the game is far from over, and their stories are still being written.
What do you think? Are these players still valuable assets, or is it time to move on? The floor is open for discussion.
