Fastest MLB Players of All Time

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Updated July 15, 2024 43.3K views 42 items
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Best players in MLB history who were known for their elite speed

This list is composed of the fastest MLB players of all time, ranked by overall speed and talent level. The MLB measures straight-line speed with modern day analytics, as well as quickness, lateral agility, and many other athletic traits. However, speed in the MLB isn't as focused on the numbers, and is instead simply quantified by the jaw-dropping speed-related feats these MLB players perform on a nightly basis. Due to top-level speed, many of the fastest MLB players are also among the greatest MLB players of all time.

This list is a collection of which players displayed the most amazing, game-changing speed in NBA history. Typically, the fastest MLB players are center-fielders such as Kenny Lofton, Billy Hamilton, and Mike Trout, since they are often the smallest and have to cover the most ground, although certain anomalies like Alex Rodriguez and Wil Myers find themselves among the fastest MLB players despite being bigger and stronger.

Go ahead and rank the fastest MLB players of all time, and when you're done, head on over to rank the fastest NBA players of all time

Most divisive: Jacoby Ellsbury
Over 3.9K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of Fastest Players of All Time
  • Rickey Henderson
    1
    Oakland Athletics, New York Yankees, San Diego Padres
    1,203 votes

    Considered a living legend in the world of baseball, Ricky Henderson's blazing speed and sharp intuition on the bases made him one of the most feared baserunners in history. Combining raw talent with a deep understanding of the game, Henderson was an expert at exploiting weaknesses in pitchers' pickoff moves and catchers' throwing abilities. The result was a silver bullet that ricocheted around the diamond, leaving defenders in his wake as he turned singles into doubles and secured victory after victory for his teams.

  • Billy Hamilton
    2
    Cincinnati Reds
    1,724 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: Taylorsville, Mississippi

    Speedster and threat on the base paths, Billy Hamilton's bold steals and head-turning sprints have consistently been a game-changing factor for his teams. A prime example of pure athleticism and hustle, Hamilton's aggressive baserunning and fearless dives into bases have turned defensive errors into scoring opportunities. In addition to his on-field exploits, his impact on the opposing team's game plans and his ability to rattle pitchers and catchers only adds to the legacy of his MLB career.

  • Bo Jackson
    3
    Oakland Raiders, Kansas City Royals, Kansas City Royals
    900 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: Bessemer, Alabama

    A true phenomenon in the annals of American sports, Bo Jackson's incredible achievements as a two-sport athlete, in both baseball and football, are nearly unrivaled. Renowned for his freakish speed and power, Jackson wowed crowds with towering home runs, lightning-fast base-running, and jaw-dropping catches in the outfield. Perhaps most emblematic of his impact, the indelible image of Jackson scaling the outfield wall in pursuit of a hit remains seared into the minds of baseball fans everywhere.

  • Deion Sanders
    4
    Dallas Cowboys, Washington Redskins, Atlanta Falcons
    716 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: Fort Myers, Florida

    Prime Time Deion Sanders' brash charisma and dazzling talent made him an icon both on and off the field. As both an NFL and MLB star, Sanders was known for his exceptional speed and agility, which he used to make highlight-reel catches and steal bases with breathtaking ease. Even more impressive was Sanders' ability to play both sports at such a high level, shining on the football field as a Hall of Fame cornerback while also establishing himself as a legitimate baseball threat with his baserunning, defense, and surprising power at the plate.

  • Rickey Henderson's legendary speed turned him into the embodiment of the adage "you can't steal first base." With his unparalleled ability to read pitchers and his seemingly endless supply of energy, Henderson was a run-producing machine that often turned games into nightmares for opposing teams. His aggressive yet calculated approach to baserunning made him a singular asset on the base paths, sending a shockwave of fear down the spines of catchers and pitchers alike whenever he stepped onto the field.

  • Lou Brock
    6
    St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago Cubs
    626 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: El Dorado, Arkansas, USA

    The quintessential stolen base king, Lou Brock dazzled baseball fans for years with his daring speed and remarkable athleticism on the base paths. His uncanny ability to find an extra gear when rounding the bases made him one of the most thrilling players in the history of the sport. Equally impressive was Brock's keen baseball intelligence, which allowed him to anticipate opponents' moves and avoid countless pickoffs and caught-stealings throughout his storied career.

  • Willie Mays
    7
    New York Mets, San Francisco Giants
    441 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: Westfield, Alabama, USA

    Willie Mays, widely known as the "Say Hey Kid," graced the baseball world with his stunning all-around talents, including his speed on the base paths and in the outfield. Mays' legendary over-the-shoulder catch in the 1954 World Series is emblematic of his range and quickness, always covering ground with a fluid grace that belied his blazing speed. As a baserunner, Mays' ability to turn on the jets and outrun the baseball solidified his status as a constant threat on the bases.

  • Vince Coleman
    8
    St. Louis Cardinals, New York Mets, Detroit Tigers
    492 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: Jacksonville, Florida

    As one of the fastest men to ever grace a baseball diamond, Vince Coleman combined elite-level speed with strong instincts for baserunning to become a truly disruptive presence on the field. His relentless aggression on the bases forced opposing defenses to constantly be on alert, creating opportunities for his teammates to score. Coleman's game-changing speed and tenacious mentality made him a nightmare for pitchers and catchers, embodying the aphorism you can't defend what you can't catch.

  • Kenny Lofton
    9
    New York Yankees, Atlanta Braves, Philadelphia Phillies
    432 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: East Chicago, Indiana, USA

    Kenny Lofton's exceptional speed and agility made him one of the most dynamic players of his era. A consummate leadoff hitter, Lofton frequently ignited his team's offense by getting on base and swiping bags with reckless abandon. His combination of quickness and intelligence when navigating the base paths was complemented by his acrobatic, highlight-reel plays in the outfield, making him a true menace to opposing teams.

  • Ichiro Suzuki
    10
    New York Yankees, Seattle Mariners, Miami Marlins
    487 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America, Japan
    • Birthplace: Kasugai, Japan

    The iconic Ichiro Suzuki has been a constant marvel throughout his MLB career, with his speed being one of his standout attributes. From beating out infield hits to stealing bases with ease, Ichiro's agility and quickness have been a nightmare for opposing teams. As if his presence in the batter's box wasn't formidable enough, his lightning-fast routes to fly balls and laser-like throws from the outfield cemented his legendary status as one of the game's fastest and most feared players.

  • Trea Turner
    11

    Trea Turner

    Washington Nationals, San Diego Padres
    459 votes
    • Nationality: American
    • Birthplace: Boynton Beach, Florida

    Trea Turner's blazing fast running and exceptional defensive skills have cemented his reputation as one of the most dynamic players in the league today. His unparalleled ability to wreak havoc on the base paths forces opposing teams to constantly be on high alert, while his consistent contact skills at the plate make him an ideal catalyst for offensive production. In addition to his offensive contributions, Turner's speed and quick reflexes often result in stunning defensive plays, highlighting his multidimensional impact on the game.

  • Byron Buxton
    12
    Minnesota Twins
    473 votes
    • Nationality: American
    • Birthplace: Baxley, Georgia

    Byron Buxton's blazing speed has been turning heads since his arrival in the MLB, quickly establishing him as one of the game's most electrifying talents. Whether he's robbing hitters with gravity-defying catches in the outfield or stretching singles into extra-base hits, Buxton's seemingly effortless speed makes him a force to be reckoned with on both sides of the ball. His impact on the field extends beyond his individual accomplishments, as his mere presence on the base paths forces defenders and pitchers to constantly be on edge, potentially creating opportunities for his teammates.

  • Dee Gordon
    13

    Dee Gordon

    Los Angeles Dodgers
    478 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: Windermere, Florida

    Dee Gordon's astonishing speed has been a hallmark of his MLB career, often turning what should be routine plays into game-changing moments. His acceleration and agility on the base paths allow him to swipe bases with ease, putting immense pressure on opposing batteries. In addition to his prowess as a baserunner, his relentless range in the field and ability to chase down seemingly uncatchable balls make Gordon a versatile and valuable asset for any team he's played for.

  • Tim Raines
    14
    New York Yankees, Miami Marlins, Baltimore Orioles
    284 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: Sanford, Florida

    Nicknamed "Rock," Tim Raines combined power, speed, and a keen baseball intellect to become one of the most feared baserunners of his time. With his exceptional ability to read pitchers and his explosive first step off the bag, Raines left countless defenders in the dust as he swiped bag after bag. Furthermore, his strong outfield play and speed on the base paths made him an invaluable member of the Montreal Expos, helping to solidify the team's standing during their glory days.

  • Ken Griffey, Jr.
    15
    Cincinnati Reds, Chicago White Sox, Seattle Mariners
    157 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: Donora, Pennsylvania, USA

    Junior Griffey was known for his powerful swing and golden glove in the outfield, but his speed was an equally important asset in his illustrious baseball career. With a fluid yet powerful stride, Griffey had a knack for covering ground quickly and making what seemed to be impossible catches. On the base paths, his speed and intelligence put constant pressure on pitchers and defenders, adding another layer of danger to his already impressive offensive arsenal.

  • Mickey Mantle
    16
    New York Yankees, New York Yankees
    770 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: USA, Spavinaw, Oklahoma

    Mickey Mantle was renowned not only for his prodigious power at the plate but also for his exceptional speed on the base paths and in the outfield. Dubbed "The Commerce Comet," Mantle's agile movements and powerful strides allowed him to cover vast swaths of the outfield in the blink of an eye, robbing hitters of would-be extra-base hits. On the base paths, his ability to maintain high speeds while turning corners left defenders scrambling, solidifying Mantle's reputation as one of the most dynamic athletes in baseball history.

  • Willie Wilson
    17
    Chicago Cubs, Kansas City Royals, Oakland Athletics
    264 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: Montgomery, Alabama

    Willie Wilson's quickness and agility on the base paths terrorized opposing pitchers and defenders throughout his playing days. Known for stretching singles into doubles, or even triples, Wilson's keen knowledge of the game, combined with his electric speed, made him a run-scoring machine. His impact extended beyond the base paths, as his quickness and range in the field often saved extra-base hits, proving his value as an all-around player.

  • Cool Papa Bell
    18

    A legend of the Negro Leagues, James "Cool Papa" Bell earned his nickname due to his calm demeanor and smooth playing style, which included his exceptional speed. Stories of Bell's exploits on the base paths are the stuff of legend, with tales of him scoring from first base on bunts and even beating throw from the outfield on drag bunts for base hits. Bell's blazing speed and extraordinary baserunning skills made him a truly remarkable and unforgettable player, leaving an indelible mark on the history of baseball.

  • Ozzie Smith
    19
    St. Louis Cardinals, St. Louis Cardinals, San Diego Padres
    298 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: Mobile, Alabama, USA

    The Wizard Ozzie Smith dazzled baseball fans throughout his career with his incredible defense at shortstop, but it was his speed that helped make him a complete player. Smith's quick feet and graceful movements allowed him to cover vast stretches of the infield, vacuuming up ground balls and turning double plays with ease. On the base paths, his astute base-stealing instincts and relentless pursuit of extra bases made him a pesky and effective threat for opponents.

  • Willie McGee
    20
    Boston Red Sox, St. Louis Cardinals, St. Louis Cardinals
    132 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: California

    Willie McGee's exceptional speed and agility were on full display throughout his MLB career, as he frequently used his quickness to make an impact both offensively and defensively. On the base paths, McGee's rapid strides and astute base-stealing instincts left many an opposing pitcher and catcher frustrated. Meanwhile, in the outfield, his seamless ability to chase down fly balls and cover large areas of ground made him a formidable presence and a fan favorite.

  • Roberto Clemente
    21
    Pittsburgh Pirates, Pittsburgh Pirates
    106 votes
    • Nationality: Puerto Rico
    • Birthplace: San Antón

    Roberto Clemente was renowned for his powerful throwing arm and prolific hitting, but his speed on the bases and in the outfield played an equally crucial role in his legendary career. Showcasing his athleticism and agility, Clemente routinely turned singles into extra-base hits and made seemingly impossible catches with ease. In addition to his individual exploits, his impact on the sport extended beyond the field, as his humanitarian efforts and trailblazing status as a Latino player in the MLB continue to inspire generations.

  • Joe Morgan
    22
    Philadelphia Phillies, San Francisco Giants, Cincinnati Reds
    169 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: Bonham, Texas, USA

    Joe Morgan was known for his exceptional all-around skills on the baseball field, with his keen base-stealing instincts and swift speed playing a significant role in his success. As an offensive spark plug, Morgan possessed the ability to read pitchers and pick the perfect moments to swipe bags. In addition to his baserunning prowess, his agility and quickness in the field made him a standout defender at second base, further showcasing his versatility and athleticism.

  • Ty Cobb
    23
    Detroit Tigers, Philadelphia Athletics
    556 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: Georgia, USA, Narrows

    One of the most revered and feared players in baseball history, Ty Cobb's aggressive style extended to his speed and baserunning acumen. Cobb's ruthless approach on the base paths included sliding with sharpened spikes and out-thinking opponents at every turn. His lightning-fast reactions and relentless pursuit of extra bases made him a nightmare for opposing defenses, solidifying his status as one of the most impactful players the game has ever seen.

  • Juan Pierre
    24
    Florida Marlins, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox
    245 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: Mobile, Alabama

    A constant thorn in the side of opposing teams, Juan Pierre's speed and ability to get on base made him a valuable contributor throughout his career. Pierre's quick first step and relentless hustle allowed him to stretch hits and steal bases, putting constant pressure on defenses. His speed also served him well in the outfield, where his range covered a significant amount of ground, allowing him to chase down would-be extra-base hits.

  • Mike Trout
    25
    Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
    414 votes
    • Nationality: American
    • Birthplace: Vineland, New Jersey

    Widely regarded as one of the most complete players in baseball today, Mike Trout has consistently displayed his blistering speed and agility on the base paths and in the field. Trout's uncanny ability to cover ground quickly and efficiently in the outfield has led to countless highlight-worthy plays, showcasing his multi-dimensional talent. At the plate and on the bases, his quick bursts of speed and intelligent baserunning have turned hits into extra bases and helped drive in runs for his team.

  • Delino DeShields
    26
    St. Louis Cardinals, Los Angeles Dodgers, Chicago Cubs
    172 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: Seaford, Delaware

    Delino DeShields' blazing speed and aggressive style of play made him a disruptive force on the base paths and in the outfield. His keen sense for stealing bases and stretching hits put constant pressure on opposing defenses, forcing them to heavily adjust their strategies. When paired with his defensive prowess, DeShields' speed and fearlessness created a lasting impact on the game and those who watched him play.

  • José Reyes
    27
    Chicago Cubs
    153 votes
    • Birthplace: Barahona, Dominican Republic

    José Reyes, known for his incredible speed and raw athleticism, consistently used his quickness to make an impact on offense and defense. His lightning-fast pace on the base paths allowed him to swipe bags and stretch hits, igniting his team's offense and putting pressure on opponents. On defense, Reyes' agility and range at shortstop made him an invaluable asset, often making improbable plays that saved runs and contributed to team wins.

  • Otis Nixon
    28
    New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, Atlanta Braves
    134 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: Evergreen, North Carolina

    Otis Nixon was renowned for his tremendous speed and smart baserunning instincts, as he terrorized pitchers and defenses throughout his playing days. His ability to get on base and create havoc once there made him a dangerous weapon in any lineup. In addition to his offensive skills, Nixon's quickness and agility in the outfield allowed him to cover vast amounts of ground, robbing hitters of sure hits and helping his team secure victories.

  • Jarrod Dyson
    29
    Kansas City Royals
    180 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: McComb, Mississippi

    Jarrod Dyson's blazing speed and dynamic energy have made him a constant threat on the base paths and in the outfield throughout his playing days. Whether swiping bags or tracking down seemingly uncatchable fly balls, Dyson's quickness and agility are a sight to behold. His ability to wreak havoc on the base paths and apply pressure on opposing defenses have been invaluable to his teams, further emphasizing the importance of speed as a critical component in the game of baseball.

  • Hank Aaron
    30
    Atlanta Braves, Milwaukee Brewers, Milwaukee Braves
    131 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: USA, Mobile, Alabama

    Hank Aaron, widely recognized for his powerful swing and home run prowess, also showcased impressive speed and agility on the base paths and in the outfield throughout his storied career. His quick stride and savvy baserunning instincts allowed him to stretch hits and put pressure on opposing defenses. In the outfield, Aaron's speed was instrumental in covering vast areas of ground, making him an all-around force to be reckoned with on the baseball field.

  • Jacoby Ellsbury
    31
    New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, Boston Red Sox
    164 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: Madras, Oregon

    Jacoby Ellsbury's blazing speed and athleticism have been potent weapons in his arsenal, offensively and defensively. On the base paths, his quick bursts and expert ability to read pitchers have led to numerous stolen bases, putting stress on opposing teams. In the outfield, Ellsbury's exceptional range and smooth gliding ability have made him a standout defender, capable of turning seemingly uncatchable balls into spectacular outs.

  • Ben Revere
    32
    Philadelphia Phillies, Minnesota Twins
    137 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: Atlanta, Georgia

    Ben Revere’s remarkable speed and agility have been key components of his game throughout his MLB career. Whether it’s tracking down fly balls in the outfield or causing chaos on the base paths, Revere’s quickness has consistently put pressure on opposing defenses. His relentless hustle and determination to utilize his speed effectively have made him a valuable and exciting player to watch.

  • Roberto Alomar
    33
    New York Mets, Cleveland Indians, Baltimore Orioles
    72 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: Ponce, Puerto Rico

    Roberto Alomar excelled in all facets of the game, with his exceptional speed being a key contributor to his success. His lightning-fast instincts and ability to read pitchers led to numerous stolen bases, igniting his team's offense and keeping defenders on their toes. In the field, Alomar's speed and agility were on full display, as he often made acrobatic, seemingly impossible plays that earned him the admiration of fans and fellow players alike.

  • Tony Gwynn
    34
    San Diego Padres, San Diego Padres
    124 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: Los Angeles, California

    Tony Gwynn was known for his legendary hitting skills, but his speed and agility on the base paths and in the outfield were also essential parts of his multifaceted game. Quick and intelligent, Gwynn was a constant threat on the bases, using his speed to turn singles into doubles and evade defenders. In the outfield, his swift movements and keen instincts allowed him to make difficult catches look effortless, solidifying his place as one of the game's all-time greats.

  • Andruw Jones
    35
    Atlanta Braves, Los Angeles Dodgers, Texas Rangers
    73 votes
    • Nationality: Netherlands
    • Birthplace: Willemstad, Netherlands

    Andruw Jones' incredible speed and range in the outfield made him a standout defensive player, earning him accolades and admiration from fans and fellow players alike. His ability to effortlessly glide across the field and make gravity-defying catches left spectators in awe, while his quickness on the base paths made him a threat to steal at any time. Throughout his career, Jones's athleticism and fearlessness earned him a reputation as one of the most exciting and dynamic players of his era.

  • Bobby Bonds
    36
    New York Yankees, St. Louis Cardinals, San Francisco Giants
    82 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: Riverside, California

    Bobby Bonds's speed and agility, coupled with his powerful hitting, made him one of the most feared all-around players of his time. As a base runner, Bonds's incredible acceleration and intuitive instincts allowed him to steal bases with ease, putting immense pressure on opposing batteries. Meanwhile, his quickness and range in the outfield made him a consistently reliable defender, capable of tracking down balls that seemed destined for extra bases.

  • Luis Castillo
    37
    Miami Marlins, New York Mets, New York Mets
    71 votes
    • Birthplace: San Pedro de Macorís, Dominican Republic

    Luis Castillo's extraordinary speed and agility were major factors in his success as a player, making him a constant nuisance for opposing defenses. On the base paths, Castillo's quickness and uncanny ability to read pitchers made him a perpetual stolen-base threat, wreaking havoc on opponents' game plans. In the field, his exceptional range and nimble footwork made him a standout defender, often making difficult plays look routine.

  • Barry Bonds
    38
    San Francisco Giants, San Francisco Giants, Pittsburgh Pirates
    101 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: USA, Riverside, California

    Although Barry Bonds is best known for his prowess at the plate and record-breaking home run totals, his speed and athleticism were also essential components of his storied career. In addition to his mighty swing, Bonds was a formidable presence on the base paths, where his speed and savvy baserunning instincts made him a dangerous threat. In the outfield, Bonds's agility and quickness allowed him to cover large stretches of ground, making impressive catches and contributing to his team's success in multiple dimensions.

  • Chone Figgins
    39
    Los Angeles Dodgers, Seattle Mariners, Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
    78 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: Leary, Georgia

    Chone Figgins was known for his versatility and speed, which he used to great effect both on the base paths and in the field. Offensively, Figgins's quickness and expert timing allowed him to steal bases with ease, putting constant pressure on opposing teams. Defensively, his speed and agility allowed him to excel at multiple positions, making him a valuable asset to any team he played for.

  • Derek Jeter
    40
    New York Yankees, New York Yankees, Scottsdale Scorpions
    119 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: Pequannock, New Jersey

    Derek Jeter, one of the most iconic players in baseball history, incorporated speed and agility into his impressive repertoire of skills. As a base runner, Jeter's quick bursts and intelligent decision-making allowed him to swipe bases with ease, while his legendary range and athleticism in the field made him a standout defender at shortstop. Throughout his illustrious career, Jeter's speed and agility were key factors in his ability to contribute to his team's victories and leave an indelible mark on the sport.

  • Carlos Beltrán
    41
    New York Yankees, St. Louis Cardinals, New York Mets
    85 votes
    • Nationality: United States of America
    • Birthplace: Manatí, Puerto Rico

    Carlos Beltrán's remarkable speed played a significant role in his success as a player, providing an additional dimension to his already impressive offensive and defensive abilities. On the base paths, Beltrán's quickness and agility allowed him to efficiently steal bases and stretch hits, putting pressure on opposing teams. Defensively, his speed aided him in covering vast areas of the outfield, making stunning catches that saved runs and secured victories for his team.

  • Jonathan Villar
    42
    Baltimore Orioles
    72 votes
    • Nationality: Dominican
    • Birthplace: Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

    Jonathan Villar's blazing speed and agility have made him a dynamic presence on the base paths and in the field. His ability to steal bases and stretch hits with ease has caused fits for opponents, while his range and quickness in the infield have resulted in numerous highlight-reel plays. As an all-around athlete, Villar's speed has been a key component of his game, showcasing the importance of this skill in the modern era of baseball.