Baseball has long been a stage for legendary talent and unforgettable moments, but not all of its icons are remembered for the right reasons. Behind the home runs and championship glory lies a darker side of the sport—one filled with scandal, controversy, and career-defining disputes.
From doping scandals to heated feuds and rule-breaking, some players and figures have left a legacy as polarizing as it is impactful. This list takes a deep dive into the 15 most controversial figures in MLB history, where greatness and notoriety collide.
14. Trevor Bauer
Trevor Bauer, a former MLB star, has been embroiled in controversy due to sexual assault allegations, leading to a two-season suspension. Despite being cleared of criminal charges, his MLB career remains stalled. He currently plays in Mexico, seeking a return to the majors.
13. Reggie Jackson
Reggie Jackson was a powerhouse hitter known for controversy. He clashed with teammates and coaches, notably in a 1977 game where he was removed by manager Billy Martin, leading to a televised confrontation. His “straw that stirs the drink” comment also sparked tension.
12. Dock Ellis
Dock Ellis pitched for 12 seasons in Major League Baseball, primarily with the Pittsburgh Pirates. He threw a no-hitter in 1970 and was an All-Star in 1971. Ellis had a career record of 138-119 with a 3.46 ERA. After retiring, he became a drug counselor and worked to help others overcome addiction.
11. Roberto Alomar
Roberto Alomar, a Hall of Fame second baseman, was placed on MLB’s Ineligible List in 2021 due to an investigation into sexual misconduct allegations from 2014. The Toronto Blue Jays severed ties with him, removing his banner and Level of Excellence recognition.
10. Curt Schilling
Curt Schilling is known for his impressive MLB career, including three World Series titles. However, his outspoken views have sparked controversy, leading to his dismissal from ESPN and complicating his Hall of Fame bid. His divisive social media posts continue to polarize fans and critics alike.
9. Albert Belle
Albert Belle was known for his intense on-field presence and off-field controversies. He was infamous for using a corked bat in 1994, leading to a seven-game suspension. Belle’s volatile behavior included confrontations with fans and teammates, earning him a reputation as one of baseball’s most contentious figures.
8. Shoeless Joe Jackson
Shoeless Joe Jackson was a star outfielder embroiled in the infamous Black Sox Scandal. Despite hitting .375 in the 1919 World Series, he was banned from baseball for life. His involvement remains debated, with some arguing he played to win despite accepting a bribe.
7. Jose Canseco
Jose Canseco is infamous for his role in the steroid era, admitting use and implicating others in his book Juiced. His claims led to significant controversy and Congressional hearings. Canseco’s personal life has also been marred by legal issues and financial struggles.
6. Roger Clemens
Roger Clemens is infamous for steroid allegations, highlighted in the Mitchell Report. Despite denying use, his former trainer Brian McNamee testified against him. Clemens was acquitted of perjury charges in 2012. His legacy remains marred by these controversies.
5. John Rocker
John Rocker is infamous for his racist, homophobic, and xenophobic remarks in a 1999 Sports Illustrated interview, leading to a 14-game suspension. His controversies continued beyond baseball, including steroid use admissions and further divisive comments.
4. Alex Rodriguez
Alex Rodriguez was suspended for 162 games in 2014 due to his involvement in the Biogenesis scandal. He initially denied using performance-enhancing drugs but later admitted to federal investigators that he had used them. Rodriguez’s career included multiple steroid-related incidents and public disputes with Major League Baseball.
3. Barry Bonds
Barry Bonds holds MLB records for career home runs (762) and single-season home runs (73). He was involved in the BALCO steroid scandal, faced legal issues, and was convicted of obstruction of justice in 2011, which was overturned in 2015. His Hall of Fame eligibility remains controversial.
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2. Pete Rose
Pete Rose, baseball’s all-time hit leader, was banned in 1989 for betting on games. His on-field achievements include 4,256 hits over 24 seasons. Rose served prison time for tax evasion and faced other controversies. He remains ineligible for the Hall of Fame.
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1. Ty Cobb
Ty Cobb was a highly skilled baseball player who set many records during his career. He played for 24 seasons, mostly with the Detroit Tigers. Cobb had a career batting average of .366 and collected 4,189 hits. He led the American League in batting average 12 times. While a great player, Cobb was known for his aggressive style with allegations that he was involved in racially motivated violence.
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