The best baseball player that ever lived is Jackie Robinson. This is because not only was Jackie an amazing baseball player, he also changed the path of baseball and many other sports. Jackie broke the color line in baseball by being signed by the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947. Many years before this he had been playing in the Negro leagues. Robinson was one of the best baseball players in the league at his time. He played in the majors for 10 years. The thing that makes him so good is his ability to be a utility player. Jackie played 1st, 2nd, 3rd and left field during his career. Robinson's peak came a little late, as he didn't reach the majors until he was 28 due to being drafted for the war and segregation. He didn't really come into his own until 1949 when he batted .342 and earned MVP. Let's take a look at Albert Pujols, a 3 time national league MVP and a Hall of Fame candidate. Pujols was a great hitter, but not a great base runner, whereas Robinson did almost everything. He was known for his daring base running style. Robinson annually finished with league leaders in on-base percentage, batting average and doubles. .
Although he was known for his base running skills, his bases stolen wasn't all that impressive, only averaging 25 in his four best years, but no one stole much in those days. If Robinson was playing in modern times he might average 50 stolen bases a season, which is very impressive. On defense, Robinson was a god. Robinson played shortstop in the Negro leagues in 1945 and the international league in 1946. Robinson began his Major career at first base, before switching to the Dodgers full time second baseman from 1948-1952. An ex- shortstop, he played 2nd base as well as any player in the majors at that time. Along with Pee Wee Reese at short, they were the dynamic double play duo. Later he was moved to 3rd base then left field. Truth is, Robinson was good everywhere. This is what made him such a great ball player.
