1. Fernando Tatis Jr.
A sensation on and off the field, Fernando Tatis Jr. leads a highly-regarded Padres roster into instant playoff (and World Series) contention. With flashes of excellence at such a young age, Tatis Jr. is a superstar in the making. Many describe the 21-year old’s style and showmanship on the field to Hall-of-Famer Ozzie Smith. As one of the best middle infielders in the game, Tatis Jr. is a sight to see as he brings a level of swagger and confidence like no other. Placing top-three in Rookie of the Year voting for the 2019 season, the rising middle infielder doubled down and worked even harder in the following off-season. The 2020 season was nothing short of a breakout year for Tatis Jr. as he finished fourth in National League MVP voting in addition to nearly hitting .300 at the dish. Tatis Jr. brings a scale of confidence and maturity to his position that cannot be replicated. The future is as bright as could be for the impactful star.
2. Francisco Lindor
One of the best players in the game, Francisco Lindor, lands second in the shortstop power rankings. With trade rumors heating up in the midst of the winter offseason, Lindor’s time in Cleveland could be on its last legs. As one of the strongest and versatile players at the position, Lindor is willing to put his body on the line for any play. Besides his elite defensive abilities, Lindor is considered a team captain who can lead and unite any ballclub. The soon-to-be free agent is one of the top names in the 2021 free agency shortstop class. Earning an All-Star appearance in four of his six seasons, Lindor is a consistent threat at any tool on the diamond. In 2020, Lindor led the league with 266 Plate Appearances and finished with 61 hits and 30 runs in 60 games. With Lindor still reaching his peak, he’ll lead the rankings for a long time to come.
3. Corey Seager
The 2016 National League Rookie of the Year, Corey Seager, has returned to glory and is now considered one of the best shortstops in the game today. A contributing piece into the 2020 Los Angeles Dodgers World Series Championship team, Seager proved he is truly one of the best as he displayed his promising power and lockdown defense. Throughout the Fall Classic against Tampa Bay, Seager led the team in hits, walks, Batting Average, OBP and OPS. A pivotal piece into the Dodgers’ rising dynasty, Seager provides a presence in the lineup like none other. Finishing the 2020 season as one of the best statistical years in the big leagues, Seager will look to repeat and look to take Los Angeles back to the World Series in 2021.
4. Trevor Story
One of the most entertaining players in the league, Trevor Story has taken the reins of the Colorado Rockies along with third baseman Nolan Arenado. Story, 28, has five years under his belt and hasn’t disappointed ever since his incredible rookie campaign. The two time All-Star and Silver Slugger slashed a .289/.519/.874 in the shortened 2020 season. Leading the league in Stolen Bases and Triples, Story can strike from anywhere on the diamond. The soon-to-be free agent, along with Seager, Lindor, Baez and others, headline the star-studded 2021 free agency class. With Story progressing each and every year, he’ll be a household name on this list for seasons to come.
5. Trea Turner
The former first-round selection in the 2014 MLB Draft, Trea Turner rounds out the list at number five. Turner has reached and surpassed all expectations placed on him ever since his impressive rookie campaign. Finishing top-ten in the NL MVP race in 2020, Turner has proved he can be an elite shortstop in today’s game. Nearly averaging 50 stolen bases a year along with a .300 Batting Average, Trea Turner is every coach’s favorite player. Described as one of the best leadoff hitters in the game, Turner can come up clutch when any team needs a big hit. With lightning quick speed, Turner can also swipe any base, at any time. As one of the best young middle infielders in the game, Trea Turner’s future is crystal clear.
Honorable Mentions: Tim Anderson, Javier Baez, Ketel Marte, Gleyber Torres, Marcus Semien
Photo: David Maxwell / Getty Images
