The Best Canadian MLB Players Of All Time
Over 200 Canadian baseball players have played in Major League Baseball. Featuring some of the best MLB players currently playing today and the greatest baseball players of all time, this list of MLB players from Canada includes World Series champions, Hall-of-Famers, and baseball legends. Who is the best MLB player from Canada?
When ranking the best Canadian MLB players, Joey Votto, Larry Walker, and Russell Martin are definitely in the top 10. Other good MLB players who were born in Canada include Justin Morneau, Fergie Jenkins, Jason Bay, and Ryan Dempster.
Vote up the best MLB players from Canada. Feel free to add any famous Canadian baseball players who have played in the Major Leagues who are missing from the list.
- 1Age: 57
A true five-tool player, Larry Walker combined power, hitting, speed, defense, and arm strength to cement his legacy as one of Canada's finest baseball players of all time. Throughout his illustrious career, Walker consistently demonstrated a flair for the dramatic, showcasing his skills with precision and poise in both the outfield and at the plate. His impact on the sport extends beyond his individual achievements, as he inspired a generation of future Canadian MLB stars to follow in his footsteps.
More Larry Walker
- #151 of 388 onThe Greatest Baseball Players Of All Time
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- 2Age: 40
An exceptional first baseman with a discerning eye, Joey Votto has etched his name among the Canadian baseball greats through his remarkable consistency and ability to get on base. Votto's plate discipline and offensive prowess have been key factors in making him a feared hitter in the league, while his defensive skills at first base are equally impressive. Representing a professional work ethic and extraordinary leadership qualities, Votto's impact on the sport both on and off the field makes him one of the best-ever Canadians to grace the MLB.
More Joey Votto- #225 of 388 onThe Greatest Baseball Players Of All Time
- #274 of 372 onThe Best Hitters in Baseball History
- #87 of 191 onThe Best Current Baseball Players Right Now
- 3Age: 81
Hailing from Ontario, the legendary Ferguson Jenkins was a masterful pitcher whose dominance on the mound spanned the better part of two decades. As a trailblazer for Canadian athletes in the MLB, Jenkins' exceptional command and strategic pitching techniques continue to be revered. A symbol of excellence and a source of national pride, Jenkins' prominence in the annals of baseball history remains indisputable.
More Ferguson Jenkins- #103 of 388 onThe Greatest Baseball Players Of All Time
- #102 of 230 onThe Best Players in the Baseball Hall of Fame
- #22 of 192 onThe Greatest Pitchers of All Time
- 4Age: 34
With his smooth swing and unwavering commitment to the game, Freddie Freeman has firmly established himself as a premier first baseman and a fine representative of Canadian talent in the MLB. Possessing an innate ability to consistently drive in runs and make clutch plays, Freeman's contributions to his team's victories often take center stage. His dynamic presence and steadfast dedication to the sport have solidified his status as a beloved figure in the Canadian baseball landscape.
More Freddie Freeman- #226 of 388 onThe Greatest Baseball Players Of All Time
- #144 of 372 onThe Best Hitters in Baseball History
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The scion of a baseball family, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is carving out his own place among the best Canadian MLB players with his prodigious power and electric style of play. As one of the MLB's youngest and brightest stars, his explosive bat and ever-improving defense make him a force to be reckoned with on the field. Guerrero Jr.'s sky-high potential and ceaseless passion for the game have earned him a legion of fans both north and south of the border.
- #171 of 372 onThe Best Hitters in Baseball History
- #18 of 191 onThe Best Current Baseball Players Right Now
- #97 of 105 onThe Greatest First Basemen of All Time
- 6Age: 43
Born and raised in British Columbia, Justin Morneau was a feared slugger and a slick fielder during his time in the MLB. The first baseman showcased his talents at the plate with a smooth, compact swing that generated results, while his glovework at the corner infield position garnered respect from his peers. Morneau's extraordinary skillset, coupled with his consistent production, makes him a worthy entrant into any conversation about Canada's greatest baseball players.
More Justin Morneau- #68 of 105 onThe Greatest First Basemen of All Time
- #6 of 64 onThe Best Canadian MLB Players Ever
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- 7Age: 41
A consummate professional behind the dish, Russell Martin exemplified the qualities of a quintessential catcher during his storied career in the MLB. Known for his superb game-calling abilities, Martin's rapport with his pitchers and his unyielding commitment to their success endeared him to fans and teammates alike. A true defensive stalwart with a knack for timely offensive contributions, Martin's place among the pantheon of Canadian baseball greats is unquestioned.
- 8
Eric Gagne
A fireballer with a penchant for closing out games, Eric Gagne was as dominant a closer as they come, with a fastball that left batters' knees buckling. The Quebec native's intimidating mound presence and devastating repertoire of pitches made him an invaluable asset to any bullpen he joined. His role in revolutionizing the closer position speaks volumes about Gagne's impact on the sport and secures his ranking among the best Canadian MLB players to have ever stepped on a diamond.
- 9Age: 56
A quintessential power hitter, Matt Stairs left an indelible mark on Canadian baseball history with his penchant for launching towering home runs and providing late-game heroics. As a versatile player who could adeptly handle various positions in the field, Stairs' value extended beyond his thunderous bat. His years of consistent production and memorable moments have solidified Stairs' standing among the top Canadian MLB players of all time.
- 10Age: 45
Hailing from Trail, British Columbia, Jason Bay earned his place among the elite Canadian MLB players thanks to his powerful bat and ability to patrol the outfield with ease. As a steady slugger with a knack for generating extra-base hits, Bay struck fear into opposing pitchers and was a vital cog in his teams' lineups. His lasting legacy within the ranks of Canadian ballplayers is a testament to his perseverance, talent, and love for the game.
More Jason Bay- #95 of 108 onThe Best Boston Red Sox Of All Time
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- #5 of 64 onThe Best Canadian MLB Players Ever
- 11Age: 47
As a versatile pitcher who excelled in both starting and relief roles, Ryan Dempster's grit and determination make him a standout figure in Canadian MLB history. With a diverse assortment of pitches at his disposal, Dempster consistently baffled hitters and anchored rotations throughout his career. His competitive spirit and unwavering commitment to the sport have left an indelible mark on the hearts of baseball fans across Canada.
More Ryan Dempster- #184 of 192 onThe Greatest Pitchers of All Time
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- #14 of 64 onThe Best Canadian MLB Players Ever
- 12Age: 35
With his impressive arsenal of pitches and unflappable demeanor on the mound, James Paxton has firmly established himself as one of the premier Canadian starting pitchers in recent memory. "The Big Maple" has left batters bewildered with his combination of velocity and movement, providing his teams with a reliable presence every time he takes the hill. Paxton's unwavering drive for success and continuous development make him an important figure in the current landscape of Canadian MLB talent.
More James Paxton- #27 of 39 onEvery Athlete On The Scott Boras Client List, Ranked
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- #17 of 64 onThe Best Canadian MLB Players Ever
- 13Age: 55
A durable and dependable relief pitcher, Paul Quantrill was the embodiment of consistency during his tenure in the MLB. The Ontario native made a lasting impact on the game with his ability to expertly navigate high-pressure situations in the latter innings, earning the trust of his managers and teammates alike. Quantrill's steady hand in the bullpen and his role in anchoring relief corps have placed him among the finest Canadian MLB players in history.
14Tyler O'Neill
As a rising star known for his prodigious power and impressive athleticism, Tyler O'Neill is poised to make a significant impact in the world of baseball. With an aggressive approach at the plate and a thunderous swing, O'Neill has the potential to become one of the most feared sluggers among his Canadian brethren. His promising career trajectory, combined with his dedication to the game, ensures that O'Neill's name will be remembered by baseball fans for years to come.
- 15Dec. at 57 (1858-1915)
A trailblazer for Canadian ballplayers in the late 19th century, Tip O'Neill left an indelible mark on the early days of professional baseball with his incredible hitting prowess. As one of the first Canadians to achieve stardom in the sport, O'Neill's impact can still be felt today, with the annual Tip O'Neill Award recognizing Canada's top baseball player. His pioneering spirit and outstanding skill set make him a cornerstone of Canada's rich baseball history.
- 16
Mike Soroka
A shining example of Canada's burgeoning MLB talent, Mike Soroka has quickly become one of the most promising young starting pitchers in the league. With his pinpoint control and deceptive repertoire of pitches, Soroka consistently keeps opposing batters on their toes, showcasing the poise of a seasoned veteran. As he continues to develop and refine his skills, Soroka's name is sure to be mentioned among the greatest Canadian MLB players for years to come.
- 17Age: 67
An accomplished outfielder with a smooth, contact-oriented swing, Terry Puhl enjoyed a productive MLB career that secured his place among Canada's greatest ballplayers. Hailing from Saskatchewan, Puhl was known for his defensive range and reliable glove, while also providing a steady offensive presence at the plate. His admirable play and consistent contributions throughout his career have solidified Puhl's standing as a notable figure in the annals of Canadian baseball.
- 18Age: 43
Representing British Columbia, starting pitcher Jeff Francis brought intelligence, skill, and poise to the mound during his notable MLB career. Armed with a variety of effective pitches and an unwavering focus that kept batters guessing, Francis consistently delivered quality outings for his teams. His commitment to the sport and steady performances earned him recognition as a reliable hurler and esteemed member of Canada's MLB talent pool.
- 19Age: 81
A dominant relief pitcher with a remarkable ability to navigate high-pressure situations, John Hiller is undoubtedly one of Canada's finest bullpen talents in MLB history. The Toronto native was adept at utilizing his diverse arsenal of pitches to keep hitters off guard, allowing him to excel in crucial late-inning roles. Hiller's excellence on the mound and enduring impact on the game have made him a prime example of Canadian MLB success.
More John Hiller- #151 of 192 onThe Greatest Pitchers of All Time
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- 20
Claude Raymond
Age: 87As one of the pioneering French-Canadian ballplayers in the MLB, Claude Raymond's impact on the sport extends far beyond his accomplishments on the field. The Quebec native enjoyed a successful career as a relief pitcher, using an impressive array of pitches to keep opposing hitters off-balance. Raymond's legacy as a trailblazer for future Canadian and French-speaking players cements his status as one of the most influential figures in Canadian baseball history.
- 21Age: 41
A hard-throwing reliever with a menacing presence on the mound, John Axford carved out a successful MLB career anchored by his high-velocity fastball and devastating breaking pitches. The Ontario native was renowned for his ability to shut down opponents in high-leverage situations, making him an invaluable asset to any bullpen. Axford's impact on the game is undoubtedly felt among Canadian baseball enthusiasts, as he remains a respected figure in the sport's landscape.
- 22Dec. at 79 (1908-1987)
A standout player during the golden era of baseball, George Selkirk was a formidable outfielder who possessed both power and finesse, earning himself a place among Canada's greatest MLB talents. Hailing from Ontario, Selkirk was known for his clutch hitting and ability to patrol the outfield with grace and skill. His impressive career and remarkable contributions to championship teams have solidified Selkirk's place in Canadian baseball lore as a true legend of the sport.
- 23Age: 51
A talented reliever who made the most of his brief yet impactful MLB career, British Columbia native Jeff Zimmerman provided stability and consistency in the bullpen. With his deceptive delivery and sharp repertoire of pitches, Zimmerman was instrumental in helping his teams secure crucial wins during his time in the league. His impressive performances and resolute attitude have ensured that Zimmerman's name remains etched in the annals of Canadian baseball greatness.
- 24
Cory Koskie
An accomplished third baseman with a penchant for delivering key offensive contributions, Manitoba-born Cory Koskie made a significant impact during his MLB career. With his quick reflexes and slick glovework in the field, coupled with his consistent efforts at the plate, Koskie became an integral part of the teams he played for. His stellar play on both offense and defense ranks him among the best Canadian players to have ever stepped foot on a baseball diamond.
- 25
Erik Bedard
Hailing from Quebec, Erik Bedard was a formidable starting pitcher who struck fear into opposing batters with his electric repertoire of pitches. With an uncanny ability to mix speeds and keep hitters off-balance, Bedard made a significant impact during his time in the MLB. The crafty southpaw's talent and fortitude have rightly earned him a spot among Canada's top baseball players.
As a talented young hurler with a bright MLB future ahead of him, Nick Pivetta has quickly become a noteworthy figure among Canadian baseball talents. The right-handed pitcher from British Columbia boasts a strong arsenal of pitches that keep hitters guessing, allowing him to make an impact every time he steps on the mound. Pivetta's ongoing development and dedication to the game ensure that his name will remain in the conversation of Canada's top MLB players for years to come.
- 27
Reggie Cleveland
Age: 76A trailblazing starting pitcher from Saskatchewan, Reggie Cleveland cemented his place in Canadian baseball history with a combination of skill, determination, and consistency on the mound. Throughout his extensive MLB career, Cleveland provided his teams with a steady presence and invaluable leadership, earning the respect and admiration of teammates and opponents alike. His tenacious approach to the game and remarkable career achievements solidify Cleveland's standing among Canada's greatest baseball talents.
- 28Age: 37
A gifted outfielder with a keen eye at the plate, British Columbia native Michael Saunders made his mark on the MLB landscape with his combination of power, speed, and defensive prowess. As a steady contributor both offensively and defensively, Saunders forged a reputation as a reliable and valuable asset to his teams. His impressive skill set and unwavering dedication to the sport have earned him a place among the pantheon of Canadian baseball greats.
- 29Age: 34
A versatile infielder with a fiery competitive spirit, Brett Lawrie brought energy, enthusiasm, and skill to the field throughout his MLB career. Known for his exceptional defensive play and potential at the plate, the British Columbia native became a fan favorite, embodying the heart and determination of Canadian ballplayers. Lawrie's contributions and memorable moments have secured his position among the most admired Canadian talents in the sport.
- 30Dec. at 60 (1915-1975)
An exceptional outfielder with an innate ability to hit for both power and contact, Jeff Heath stood out among his contemporaries as one of the premier Canadian players in his era. The Fort William, Ontario, native consistently made an impact on games with his impressive offensive skills and dependable glove work. Heath's talent and contributions to the sport have left a lasting legacy and solidified his status as a prominent figure in Canadian baseball history.
