There are stars, and then there are the glue guys—the ones who made everyone around them better, kept the vibes immaculate, and had the kind of clubhouse presence you just can’t teach. Whether it was hyping up a rookie, cracking a joke after a tough loss, or just bringing their lunch-pail mentality every single day, these players were the ultimate teammates.
This list isn’t about who hit the most home runs or struck out the side in the ninth. It’s about the guys you wanted in your corner when the dugout got tense, the road trip got long, or the postseason pressure started to build. Here are 20 MLB players who defined what it meant to be a great teammate—from role players to legends who knew how to lead.
20. Curtis Granderson
Granderson was the ultimate professional, always smiling, hustling, and always there for his teammates. His positivity was contagious, no matter the uniform he wore.
19. Sean Casey
They didn’t call him “The Mayor” for nothing—Casey made everyone feel welcome. He brought energy, leadership, and enough storytelling to keep the whole dugout laughing.
18. Brandon Phillips
Flashy with the glove and fun with his teammates, Phillips knew how to balance swagger with camaraderie. He could flip a double play and flip a bat, all while keeping the team loose.
17. David Ross
Whether as a backup catcher or a veteran mentor, Ross brought wisdom and warmth to every clubhouse. His leadership helped build championship chemistry.
16. Torii Hunter
Hunter’s defense was elite, but his mentorship mattered just as much. He had a knack for guiding young players and creating a family-like culture.
15. Jonny Gomes
The kind of guy who’d take a pitch to the ribs if it meant sparking his team. Gomes was all grit and heart, and teammates fed off that energy.
14. Martín Prado
Steady, reliable, and respected—Prado was a glue guy through and through. He was the kind of player managers trusted and teammates leaned on.
13. Joc Pederson
From pearls to postseason bombs, Joc brought flair and fire to every dugout he joined. His ability to keep things light while delivering in big moments made him a favorite.
12. Freddie Freeman
Freeman is the definition of steady leadership with a side of dry humor. He lifts up young players and sets the tone with how he carries himself every day.
11. Jason Heyward
Heyward’s speech during the 2016 rain delay in Game 7 of the World Series is legendary for a reason. He’s always been a quiet leader who shows up when it matters most.
10. Kiké Hernández
Always dancing, always joking, and somehow always delivering in October, Kiké is a vibe. His versatility on the field matches his value off of it.
9. Miguel Cabrera
Even as he collected MVPs and batting titles, Miggy never stopped being the fun-loving, dugout-dancing presence everyone adored. He kept things light and led by example.
8. Nick Swisher
Swisher turned every team into a party and every game into a chance to celebrate. His infectious energy made even slumps easier to handle.
7. Chris Young (Outfielder)
A consummate pro, Young was the veteran every young star seemed to love having around. He knew when to speak up and step back, and always had your back.
6. José Iglesias
Whether it was smooth double plays or smooth dance moves, Iglesias brought flair to the dugout. He was the kind of teammate who made the grind more enjoyable.
5. Mookie Betts
One of the best players in the game, but never too big for the moment or the people around him. Mookie’s mix of humility and excellence makes him the dream teammate.
4. Hunter Pence
With unorthodox everything and a heart twice the size of his helmet, Pence was beloved everywhere he played. His speeches alone were worth a roster spot.
3. Andrew McCutchen
Cutch is classy, thoughtful, and endlessly respected. He’s the kind of leader who makes everyone better—on and off the field.
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2. Salvador Perez
Salvy is a walking smile and the heartbeat of every Royals team he’s been on. His joy for the game and love for his teammates make him one of the most beloved catchers ever.
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1. Big Papi (David Ortiz)
Nobody brought a team together like Big Papi. Whether it was clutch hits or clubhouse hugs, he made every dugout feel like a winning one.
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