Last Updated: June 17th, 2026 by Michael Schatz
Baseball history is filled with incredible third basemen who, despite their remarkable achievements, have somehow slipped from the spotlight. From defensive wizards to powerful sluggers, these 10 forgotten heroes of the hot corner deserve to be remembered for their significant contributions to America’s pastime.
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Buddy Bell: The Defensive Mastermind (1972-1989)
A defensive virtuoso who claimed six consecutive Gold Gloves (1979-1984), Buddy Bell was the epitome of excellence at third base. With a career .279 batting average, 2,514 hits, and 201 home runs, Bell’s 66.3 WAR speaks volumes about his all-around impact. His exceptional range and powerful arm revolutionized third base defense during the late ’70s and early ’80s.
Sal Bando: The Oakland Dynasty Captain (1966-1981)
As captain of the legendary Oakland A’s dynasty, Sal Bando led his team to three consecutive World Series titles (1972-1974). A four-time All-Star with a career .254/.352/.408 slash line, Bando’s leadership and clutch performances were instrumental in Oakland’s success. His 61.5 WAR and 1973 AL-leading stats in total bases and doubles showcase his exceptional abilities.
Graig Nettles: The Yankees’ Defensive Star (1967-1988)
With 390 career home runs and an impressive 68.0 WAR, Graig Nettles was a cornerstone of the Yankees’ late ’70s dynasty. His spectacular defensive plays in the 1978 World Series remain legendary, and his six All-Star selections and two Gold Gloves only tell part of his story. Nettles led the AL in home runs in 1976 and was known for his clutch performances in crucial games.
Darrell Evans: The Ageless Power Hitter (1969-1989)
A true power-hitting pioneer, Darrell Evans crushed 414 home runs and drew 1,605 walks in his remarkable career. He made history as the first 40-year-old to hit 30 home runs in a season (1987). Despite a .248 batting average, his exceptional patience at the plate resulted in a career .361 OBP, making him one of the most underrated sluggers of his era.
Ken Boyer: The Cardinals’ MVP Leader (1955-1969)
The 1964 NL MVP Ken Boyer led the Cardinals to World Series glory with his outstanding performance. His career .287 average, 282 home runs, and 62.8 WAR demonstrate his exceptional all-around ability. Boyer’s five Gold Gloves and seven All-Star selections reflect his dominance both at the plate and in the field during baseball’s Golden Era.
Ron Cey: The Penguin’s Prowess (1971-1987)
Nicknamed “The Penguin,” Ron Cey was a six-time All-Star who anchored the Dodgers’ infield through the 1970s. His impressive career numbers include 316 home runs, 1,139 RBIs, and a .261/.354/.445 slash line. Cey’s consistent performance helped lead the Dodgers to four World Series appearances, including their 1981 championship victory.
Bob Elliott: The Forgotten MVP (1939-1953)
The 1947 NL MVP posted remarkable numbers throughout his career, including a .289/.375/.440 slash line and 170 home runs. Elliott’s seven All-Star appearances and innovative combination of power hitting with stellar defense set new standards for third basemen. His MVP season in 1947 saw him hit .317 with 22 home runs and 113 RBIs for the Boston Braves.
Doug DeCinces: The Brooks Robinson Successor (1973-1987)
Following in the footsteps of Brooks Robinson in Baltimore, DeCinces carved out his own impressive legacy with a .259/.329/.445 slash line and 237 home runs. His standout 1982 season with the California Angels saw him finish third in MVP voting, hitting .301 with 30 home runs and 97 RBIs while providing exceptional defense at the hot corner.
Carney Lansford: The Batting Champion (1978-1992)
The 1981 AL batting champion (.336) was a key component of the powerful Oakland A’s teams of the late 1980s. Lansford’s career .290 average, 2,074 hits, and 224 stolen bases showcase his diverse skill set. His steady presence at third base was crucial to Oakland’s three consecutive World Series appearances from 1988-1990, cementing his place among baseball’s most reliable third basemen.
Toby Harrah: The Versatile All-Star (1969-1986)
A four-time All-Star who excelled with the Rangers, Indians, and Yankees, Toby Harrah was the definition of a five-tool player. His impressive career stats include 195 home runs, 267 stolen bases, and a .264/.365/.395 slash line. With a career WAR of 51.4, Harrah’s combination of power, speed, and exceptional plate discipline made him one of the most well-rounded third basemen of his era.