MLB Network's Fan-Voted Top 10 Shortstops for 2026 Season Unveiled
As Major League Baseball teams finalize their rosters and back offices strategize for playoff aspirations, MLB Network's annual fan poll has once again spotlighted one of the most demanding positions in the sport—shortstop. This year's list, voted by fans for the 2026 season, showcases a blend of five-tool phenoms, Gold Glove winners, postseason heroes, and emerging defensive maestros, reflecting the incredible depth of talent at this crucial infield spot.
The Countdown: A Testament to Shortstop Excellence
The fan-voted top 10 shortstops ranking underscores the multifaceted skills required for the position, including exceptional range, powerful arm strength, leadership qualities, and offensive punch from the middle of the order. Kansas City Royals superstar Bobby Witt Jr. narrowly edged out Texas Rangers' Corey Seager to secure the coveted number one spot, highlighting his dominant all-around performance.
Detailed Breakdown of the Top 10 Shortstops
10) Dansby Swanson (Chicago Cubs): The 2023 Gold Glove winner remains one of the league's most reliable defenders at shortstop, complemented by steady power and invaluable clubhouse leadership, earning him an honorable mention on this prestigious list.
9) Masyn Winn (St. Louis Cardinals): Masyn Winn has quickly established himself as one of baseball's premier young defenders, thanks to his superior arm strength and lightning-fast first step, with his batting skills rapidly improving to match his defensive prowess.
8) Corey Seager (Texas Rangers): A World Series MVP and regular Silver Slugger, Corey Seager combines postseason success with formidable left-handed power, excelling at one of the most challenging positions in the game.
7) Elly De La Cruz (Cincinnati Reds): No shortstop electrifies crowds quite like Elly De La Cruz. His elite speed, jaw-dropping exit velocities, and cannon arm make him a nightly highlight reel, securing his well-deserved place among the top shortstops.
6) Trea Turner (Philadelphia Phillies): A former batting champion and consistent stolen-base threat, Trea Turner blends outstanding speed with postseason experience and smooth infield intelligence, making him a key asset for the Phillies.
5) Gunnar Henderson (Baltimore Orioles): Gunnar Henderson's MVP-caliber surge in Baltimore has been marked by thunderous power and enhanced defense, establishing him as one of the most feared two-way infielders in the American League.
4) Geraldo Perdomo (Arizona Diamondbacks): Geraldo Perdomo's silky glovework and high baseball IQ are instrumental to Arizona's infield success, while his improved plate discipline has transformed him into an on-base machine.
3) Mookie Betts (Los Angeles Dodgers): Already an MVP and multiple-time Gold Glove winner as an outfielder, Mookie Betts transitioned seamlessly to shortstop, delivering 20 home runs, a .258/.326/.406 slash line, and 82 RBIs in 2025, further cementing his legendary status.
2) Francisco Lindor (New York Mets): A multiple-time Gold Glove winner, Francisco Lindor combines elite defense with switch-hitting power and leadership in New York. His consistency and October credentials keep him firmly among baseball's top-tier shortstops, even as fan rankings evolve.
1) Bobby Witt Jr. (Kansas City Royals): A perennial MVP candidate with Gold Glove credentials, Bobby Witt Jr. earned the top ranking after a dominant season characterized by elite sprint speed, highlight-reel defense, and franchise-player production, solidifying his position as baseball's premier shortstop.
Why This Ranking Matters for the 2026 Season
MLB Network's fan vote reveals a fundamental truth about the current state of baseball: shortstop is the most talent-drenched position in MLB. From Witt's five-tool brilliance and Seager's October resume to Betts' versatility and De La Cruz's pure electricity, this list features a compelling mix of proven award winners and future superstars. As Opening Day approaches, these rankings are poised to spark countless debates among fans and analysts alike, highlighting the dynamic and competitive nature of the sport.
