An all-star at five positions, Rose is one of the longest-lasting and grittiest of the superstars. He began his career in 1963 as a second baseman, moved to right field, then left, then to third base, and finally to first base. He was good enough to win a Rookie of the Year, two Gold Gloves for his outfield work, an MVP in 1973, and the World Series MVP in 1975. He was never a big power hitter, but collected as many as 16 homers in a season. Batting mostly leadoff, he consistently batted .300 in a low-offense era, collecting 200 hits a year plus a good number of walks. He ran out every ball, and played every game year in and year out.
Pete's reputation has suffered, first by hanging on too long---he was of limited use after 1982---and the gambling cloud that has settled on him, followed by hawking memorabilia at every opportunity. But he had a legitimate 20-year career as a top player, played a number of positions ranging from well to competently, and gave his all on the field, every day and every play. The Hit King has nothing to apologize for as a player.
Imagine where he'd rank if he was any good at defense. Chipper, born Larry Wayne Jones, was the first overall pick in the 1990 draft, so expectations were attached. The Floridian appeared briefly in 1993, but made his real debut in 1995 taking over at third base for veteran Terry Pendleton. Chipper was second in Rookie of the Year voting, and soon established himself as a star.
Chipper has been a regular .300 hitter, drove in 100 runs in eight straight seasons at one point, and won the 1999 NL MVP. He moved to the outfield in 2002, but that didn't go so well so he moved back two years later. He has become less durable with age but is still one of the best hitters around.
Jones has earned 186.43 ratings points through 2010.
Jones's stats (through 2010): .306 average, 438 HR, 1507 RBI, 2512 hits. posted by Shawn Weaver at 8:02 PM
