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The 15 Most Likable Sluggers in MLB History

Baseball has always had its share of larger-than-life power hitters, but not all of them were easy to root for. Some mashed home runs but rubbed fans the wrong way, while others managed to combine jaw-dropping power with an easygoing charm that made them universally adored.

This list isn’t just about stats or records—it’s about the guys who hit moonshots and still managed to win hearts. Whether it was their infectious smiles, humble attitude, or love for the game, these 15 sluggers were impossible not to like.

15. Fred McGriff

1996, Atlanta, GA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Atlanta Braves first baseman Fred McGriff in action at the plate at Fulton County Stadium during the 1996 season.
RVR Photos-Imagn Images

The “Crime Dog” was a consistent power hitter who never seemed to be in a bad mood. He let his bat do the talking and never got caught up in drama.

14. David Justice

Oct 21, 2000; New York, NY, USA; David Justice doubles in two runs in the sixth inning of the first game of the World Series at Yankee Stadium in New York.
USA TODAY-USA TODAY NETWORK

Justice had a smooth swing and a calm presence that made fans feel like they were watching their favorite cousin crush baseballs. He had star power without ever seeming too full of himself.

13. Mo Vaughn

Jul 6, 1991; Boston, MA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Boston Red Sox infielder Mo Vaughn at bat against the Detroit Tigers at Fenway Park.
RVR Photos-Imagn Images

Mo Vaughn was a big man with an even bigger heart, always connecting with fans and teammates alike. His tough playing style was balanced by his generous, down-to-earth personality.

12. Todd Helton

September 29, 2013; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Colorado Rockies first baseman Todd Helton (17) acknowledges the crowd before his final at bat of the game in the ninth inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium.
Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Helton quietly went about his business in Colorado, hitting bombs and keeping it classy the entire time. He had that calm, reliable energy that just made fans feel good.

11. Prince Fielder

Sep 26, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Texas Rangers designated hitter Prince Fielder (84) hits a single against the Houston Astros in the fifth inning at Minute Maid Park.
Thomas B. Shea-Imagn Images

Prince had that rare combo of intimidating power and joyful energy. Every home run felt like a party when he was at the plate.

10. Vladimir Guerrero

Jun 21, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero (27) hits a solo home run against the Chicago White Sox during the seventh inning at Rogers Centre.
John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

Vlad could hit anything, and he did it all with a huge grin and no batting gloves. His wild, unpredictable style made him a fan favorite everywhere he played.

9. Tony Gwynn

September 29, 2009; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Padres center fielder Tony Gwynn (18) rounds first following a solo home run during the third inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Petco Park.
Christopher Hanewinckel-Imagn Images

While not a traditional slugger by home run numbers, Gwynn’s bat was lethal in its own way, and he was beloved for his loyalty and humility. He represented everything good about baseball.

8. Ken Griffey Jr.

Apr 10, 2007; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Cincinnati Reds right fielder (3) Ken Griffey Jr stands in the batters box against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field in Phoenix, AZ.
Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The swing was beautiful, the smile was even better. Griffey made baseball cool without ever acting like he was too cool for it.

7. Frank Thomas

Oct 11, 2006; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Athletics designated hitter (35) Frank Thomas after striking out in the first inning during game 2 of the American League Championship series against the Detroit Tigers at McAfee Coliseum in Oakland, CA.
Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

The “Big Hurt” looked like he could knock a ball into orbit, but he always came off as approachable and thoughtful. He was respected by fans, media, and opponents alike.

6. Albert Pujols

Oct 8, 2022; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; St. Louis Cardinals designated hitter Albert Pujols (5) hits a single in the sixth inning against the Philadelphia Phillies during game two of the Wild Card series for the 2022 MLB Playoffs at Busch Stadium.
Jeff Curry-Imagn Images

Pujols crushed baseballs for two decades but always carried himself with grace. His dedication to his community only made fans love him more.

5. Jim Thome

July 21, 2010; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Twins designated hitter Jim Thome (25) during the game against the Cleveland Indians at Target Field. The Twins defeated the Indians 4-1.
Brace Hemmelgarn-Imagn Images

Thome had that classic Midwestern charm and a swing that could launch baseballs to the moon. He somehow stayed humble through a Hall of Fame career.

4. Miguel Cabrera

July 19, 2011; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers first baseman Miguel Cabrera (24) during the fifth inning against the Oakland Athletics at Comerica Park.
Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

Miggy brought fun and flair to every at-bat, often laughing mid-game while still mashing home runs. His love for the game was infectious.

3. Chipper Jones

2002, Atlanta, GA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Atlanta Braves third baseman Chipper Jones in action at Turner Field during the 2002 season.
RVR Photos-Imagn Images

Even if you rooted against his team, it was hard to root against Chipper. He played the game the right way and never took himself too seriously.

Read More: 15 MLB Stars Who Were More Team Dad Than Team Diva

2. David Ortiz

Oct 13, 2013; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox designated hitter David Ortiz (34) reacts after striking out against the Detroit Tigers during the sixth inning in game two of the American League Championship Series baseball game at Fenway Park.
Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY

Big Papi was larger than life in all the best ways. His clutch hits and warm personality made him a legend on and off the field.

Read More: 15 ’90s MLB Stars Every Fan Would Want on Their Team Today

1. Hank Aaron

Apr 1970; unknown location; FILE PHOTO; Hank Aaron of the Atlanta Braves during the 1970 season.
Malcolm Emmons-Imagn Images

Aaron carried the weight of history while hitting 755 home runs and never once lost his grace. He was a true gentleman of the game and the ultimate likable slugger.

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