Last Updated: June 17th, 2026 by Michael Schatz
The 1970s were a golden era for third basemen in Major League Baseball, featuring some of the most talented players to ever man the hot corner. From defensive wizards to power hitters, these players defined excellence at third base during this exciting decade.
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1. Mike Schmidt (1972-1979) – The Revolutionary Power Hitter
Mike Schmidt revolutionized the third base position in the 1970s with his unprecedented combination of power and defensive excellence. During this decade, he crushed 235 home runs, won two NL home run titles (1974, 1975), made four All-Star teams, and earned five Gold Gloves. His 1974 season was particularly impressive, leading the league with 36 home runs despite playing in the pitcher-friendly Veterans Stadium.
2. Brooks Robinson (1970-1977) – The Human Vacuum Cleaner
Brooks Robinson’s defensive mastery earned him Gold Gloves every year from 1970-1975. His defining moment came in the 1970 World Series, where his spectacular defense earned him MVP honors. Despite declining offensive numbers, his defensive excellence kept him among the elite, making the All-Star team from 1970-1974 and cementing his legacy as baseball’s greatest defensive third baseman.
3. George Brett (1973-1979) – Kansas City’s Rising Star
George Brett emerged as one of baseball’s premier hitters during the 1970s, winning the 1976 batting title with a .333 average. His sweet left-handed swing and complete playing style earned him five consecutive All-Star selections (1976-1979). Brett’s combination of hitting for average and power while playing solid defense made him the American League’s premier third baseman by decade’s end.
4. Sal Bando (1970-1979) – The Dynasty’s Captain
As captain of the Oakland A’s dynasty, Sal Bando was instrumental in three consecutive World Series victories (1972-1974). His leadership and clutch hitting produced consistent results, averaging 77 RBIs per season and making four All-Star teams. From 1973-1976, Bando finished in the top four in MVP voting three times, showcasing his impact on baseball’s most dominant team of the era.
5. Ron Cey (1973-1979) – The Penguin’s Power
“The Penguin” became a cornerstone of the powerful Dodgers teams, making four All-Star teams and averaging 25 home runs per season from 1974-1979. Despite playing in pitcher-friendly Dodger Stadium, Cey’s consistent power production helped the Dodgers win three pennants (1974, 1977, 1978), establishing himself as one of the decade’s most reliable power hitters.
6. Graig Nettles (1970-1979) – The Yankees’ Defensive Star
Nettles combined spectacular defense with significant power from the left side, leading the AL in home runs in 1976 with 32. His defensive prowess peaked in the 1978 World Series, helping the Yankees secure their second consecutive championship. Four All-Star selections during the 1970s highlighted his consistent excellence at the hot corner.
7. Darrell Evans (1970-1979) – The Underrated Star
Evans combined excellent plate discipline with consistent power, averaging 20 home runs per season throughout the decade. His best year came in 1973 with Atlanta, smashing 41 home runs and finishing eighth in MVP voting. Evans’ ability to draw walks and provide power made him one of the decade’s most underappreciated stars.
8. Pete Rose (1975-1977) – The Hit King at Third
Though primarily known as an outfielder and first baseman, Rose’s time at third base coincided with the Big Red Machine’s peak years. During this period, he maintained a .300+ average and helped Cincinnati win World Series titles in 1975 and 1976, proving his versatility and consistent hitting prowess at yet another position.
9. Bill Madlock (1973-1979) – The Batting Champion
“Mad Dog” dominated the batting title race, winning two crowns during the decade (1975, 1976) while playing for the Cubs. His remarkable .354 average in 1975 showcased his pure hitting ability, making him one of the most consistent offensive third basemen of the era despite not being known for his defense.
10. Doug DeCinces (1973-1979) – The Worthy Successor
Following Brooks Robinson was no easy task, but DeCinces proved worthy of the challenge in Baltimore. His best season came in 1978, hitting 28 home runs and driving in 80 runs while playing excellent defense. DeCinces successfully bridged the gap between the Robinson era and the modern age of third basemen.
11. Buddy Bell (1972-1979) – The Defensive Specialist
Bell established himself as one of the best defensive third basemen while playing for Cleveland. His combination of steady offense and exceptional glove work made him a valuable player throughout the decade. Though he didn’t receive as much recognition as his contemporaries, Bell’s consistent excellence at the hot corner earned him a place among the decade’s elite third basemen.