Introducing the All-Star Selection Process
As we navigate through 2025, it’s astonishing to reflect on the rapid progression of the 21st century. At The Athletic, we embarked on an intriguing endeavor: to assemble an All-Star baseball team that encapsulates the finest talent of the past quarter-century. Not only will we unveil our selections, but we also invite you, the fans, to cast your votes.
The Criteria for Selection
Determining the roster hinged on performance metrics from the 2000s onwards. With the statistics as our guiding light, we aimed to identify players who left an indelible mark on the game. This article serves as a precursor to the selections—expect strong opinions and perhaps a few controversies.
Position Breakdown and Selections
First Base: The Unmatched Albert Pujols
When considering first basemen, one name stands tall: Albert Pujols. With over 700 home runs and a staggering 3,300 hits, Pujols’ achievements are unparalleled. His WAR of 101.3 and a record for total bases solidify his status as a legend of the game.
Second Base: The Controversial Choice of José Altuve
The selection of José Altuve over Robinson Canó comes with its share of debate, particularly due to Canó’s performance-enhancing drug controversies. Altuve’s accolades, including multiple batting titles and a path toward Cooperstown, outweigh any shadows cast by his team’s scandals.
Shortstop: The Timeless Derek Jeter
Derek Jeter’s legacy is hard to overlook when discussing shortstops. While contenders like Francisco Lindor and Jimmy Rollins have emerged, Jeter’s clutch performances and World Series appearances during the 2000s ultimately set him apart.
Third Base: The Case for Adrián Beltré
Adrián Beltré takes the nod at third base, outshining other Hall of Famers like Chipper Jones. His defensive prowess and nearly 3,000 hits make him a standout choice for this era.
Left Field: The Polarizing Barry Bonds
Selecting Barry Bonds may provoke strong reactions, especially amidst discussions of performance-enhancing drugs. However, his statistical dominance during the 2000s is undeniable, making him a necessary inclusion.
Center Field: Mike Trout’s Stellar Start
Despite recent injury struggles, Mike Trout’s first decade in the league has been nothing short of extraordinary. His consistent performance and WAR figures position him as the top choice for center field.
Right Field: Aaron Judge’s Ascendancy
Aaron Judge stands out as a modern right-field titan. His impressive offensive metrics and ability to break records have earned him a spot on this prestigious roster.
Catcher: Yadier Molina’s Impact
Yadier Molina’s influence on the Cardinals’ pitching staff over nearly two decades cements his position as the premier catcher of this era, surpassing other notable candidates.
Designated Hitter: The Legacy of David Ortiz
David Ortiz, a pivotal figure in the Red Sox’s resurgence, embodies the spirit of the designated hitter role. His clutch performances and leadership qualities make him an easy choice.
The Starting Rotation: A League of Legends
The rotation features titans like Justin Verlander, Clayton Kershaw, and Randy Johnson, among others. Each pitcher has etched their name into baseball history, and the debate over the fifth starter showcases the wealth of talent available.
The Closer: Mariano Rivera’s Unmatched Legacy
Mariano Rivera’s dominance in the 2000s as a closer is indisputable. His postseason heroics and overall ERA make him a lock for this team, regardless of early career considerations.
Engage with Us!
As we finalize our All-Quarter Century Team, we encourage you to share your thoughts and selections. Who would you include? The beauty of this exercise lies in its subjectivity—let’s celebrate the game together!