Baseball is a game of moments, and the greatest players in MLB history have thrived when the stakes were highest.
Whether it’s a walk-off home run, a game-saving defensive play, or a lights-out pitching performance, clutch players define the sport’s most memorable moments. Here, we rank the 15 most clutch MLB players of all time.
15. Kirk Gibson
Few moments in baseball history match the sheer drama of Kirk Gibson’s walk-off home run in Game 1 of the 1988 World Series. Battling injuries, Gibson limped to the plate and crushed a Dennis Eckersley pitch into the right-field stands, solidifying his legacy as a clutch performer.
14. Bill Mazeroski
Mazeroski’s place on this list is secured by one swing: his walk-off home run in Game 7 of the 1960 World Series. The Pittsburgh Pirates’ second baseman remains the only player to end a World Series with a Game 7 home run, making his moment one of the most clutch in MLB history.
13. Derek Jeter
“Mr. November” earned his reputation for coming through in the postseason. From his game-winning home run in the 2001 World Series to the famous “Flip Play” in the ALDS, Jeter consistently delivered in high-pressure moments, cementing his place as one of baseball’s greatest clutch players.
12. David Ortiz
Big Papi was a nightmare for opposing pitchers in October. His heroics in the 2004 ALCS helped the Red Sox complete their historic comeback against the Yankees, and his walk-off hits and key home runs throughout multiple postseason runs made him one of the most clutch hitters ever.
11. Ozzie Smith
Ozzie Smith wasn’t known for his power, but his dramatic walk-off home run in the 1985 NLCS proved he could rise to the occasion. “Go crazy, folks!” became an iconic call, and Smith’s defense and timely hitting made him a postseason legend.
10. Jack Morris
Morris’ 10-inning shutout in Game 7 of the 1991 World Series is one of the greatest pitching performances ever. The Tigers and Twins legend had a knack for delivering when it mattered most, and his performance for the Twins against the Braves is the gold standard of clutch pitching.
9. Reggie Jackson
“Mr. October” lived up to his nickname with a three-home-run performance in Game 6 of the 1977 World Series. Jackson’s ability to rise to the occasion in the postseason made him one of the most feared clutch hitters of his era.
8. Madison Bumgarner
Bumgarner’s dominance in the 2014 postseason, especially his five-inning save in Game 7 of the World Series, is the stuff of legend. His 0.25 ERA in that Fall Classic and his ability to deliver in the biggest moments make him one of the most clutch pitchers in MLB history.
7. Joe Carter
“Touch ’em all, Joe!” Carter’s walk-off home run in the 1993 World Series remains one of baseball’s most iconic moments. His clutch swing sealed the Blue Jays’ second consecutive championship and etched his name into history.
6. Sandy Koufax
Koufax dominated the postseason, particularly in 1965 when he pitched a Game 7 shutout on two days’ rest. His ability to deliver under extreme pressure makes him one of the most clutch pitchers of all time.
5. Lou Gehrig
Gehrig consistently delivered in the biggest moments, with a career .361 batting average in World Series play. The Iron Horse was a force when it mattered most, helping the Yankees secure multiple championships.
4. Mariano Rivera
The greatest closer of all time, Rivera was nearly untouchable in October. His career postseason ERA of 0.70 and numerous key saves, including in the 1998, 1999, and 2000 World Series, make him the ultimate shutdown reliever in clutch moments.
3. Babe Ruth
The Sultan of Swat wasn’t just a power hitter; he thrived in the biggest moments. From calling his shot in the 1932 World Series to his overall dominance in postseason play, Ruth’s clutch factor was as legendary as his bat.
Read More: Unsung Heroes: The 15 Greatest NBA Role Players Ever
2. Roberto Clemente
Clemente’s heroic performance in the 1971 World Series, where he hit .414 and dominated in all facets of the game, showcased his ability to shine under pressure. His clutch hitting and incredible defense made him a postseason legend.
Read More: Ranking the 15 Best Shortstops in the MLB
1. Yogi Berra
With 10 World Series championships, Berra holds the record for most titles won by a player. He consistently delivered in crucial moments, both behind the plate and with his bat, making him the ultimate clutch player in MLB history.
