Our 1960s Baseball All-Decades Team (The 27 Best Players)

The 1960s was a swinging time not just in culture and politics, but on the baseball diamond too. The era saw the rise of many baseball legends, whose remarkable performances left an indelible mark on the history of the game.

As we swing back in time to the 1960s, we find a rich heritage of baseball stars who dazzled fans with their prowess and skill. In this section, we’ll lay down the groundwork on how we picked the best of the best from this exciting decade of baseball.

Overview of the 1960s in Baseball

The 1960s was a period of transformation and excitement in the world of baseball. This decade witnessed the establishment of new teams, legendary World Series games, and the emergence of stars who became the icons of the game.

It was a time when pitchers like Sandy Koufax and Bob Gibson dominated, and hitters like Hank Aaron and Willie Mays thrilled fans with their power and finesse.

The competition was fierce, and the battle for supremacy among teams was a spectacle that kept fans on the edge of their seats. The rivalry between teams and the hustle for the pennant made the 60s a golden era that defined the spirit of baseball.

Criteria for Selection

Selecting the best player for each position from a decade filled with legendary talents was no easy task. Our criteria is a mix of statistical performance, impact on the game, and a sprinkle of our own subjective judgement for that extra bit of flavor.

We delved into the stats, looked at the longevity and consistency of performance over the decade, and considered the players’ contributions to their teams’ successes. Besides the stats, we also considered the character and leadership qualities of these players, as well as their iconic moments that left a lasting memory in the hearts of fans.

In addition to picking the best player for each position, we’ve also lined up the next 9 best players from the 1960s, regardless of their position.

This was a fun, yet challenging task as it required a broad lens to appreciate the diverse talents that graced the baseball field during this era. Through a mix of research, debate and a love for the game, we’ve put together a list that celebrates the crème de la crème of 1960s baseball.

The All-Decade Team Selections

Stepping back into the 1960s baseball scene is like opening a book filled with legendary tales of players who defined a golden era of the sport. Our All-Decade Team is a tribute to those stars who shone the brightest amidst a galaxy of talents.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into the position-by-position lineup of the crème de la crème from the 1960s baseball roster.

Pitcher

Sandy Koufax

The name Sandy Koufax is synonymous with pitching greatness. His mastery over the baseball, combined with a heart of a lion, made him a spectacle on the mound. The left-handed pitcher’s fastball was a sight to behold, and his curveball could dazzle even the most seasoned hitters.

With four no-hitters, including a perfect game, and three Cy Young Awards during this decade, Koufax’s resume speaks volumes. His prowess in the 1963, 1965, and 1966 seasons, where he clinched the Cy Young Awards, showcased a blend of skill and tenacity that is revered to this day.

Catcher

Johnny Bench

Johnny Bench’s name reverberates through baseball history as one of the greatest catchers of all time. His blend of offensive and defensive prowess made him a cornerstone of the Cincinnati Reds.

Though his prime years spilled into the 1970s, Bench’s remarkable entry in the late 1960s, including a Rookie of the Year award in 1968, laid the foundation for a legacy that would be etched in baseball lore.

First Base

Harmon Killebrew

A powerhouse at the plate, Harmon Killebrew was a terror for pitchers. His raw power and ability to send the ball soaring into the stands made him a fan favorite.

With six of his eight All-Star appearances coming in the 1960s and hitting 40-plus home runs in a season four times during the decade, Killebrew’s bat spoke loudly and left a lasting impact on the game.

Second Base

Joe Morgan

Joe Morgan’s agility and sharp instincts made him a standout second baseman. His ability to read the game and make critical plays set him apart from his peers.

Though Morgan’s zenith would come in the following decade, his formative years in the 1960s showcased the budding genius of a player who would go on to become one of the finest second basemen the game has ever seen.

Third Base

Brooks Robinson

Known as the “Human Vacuum Cleaner”, Brooks Robinson’s defensive prowess at third base was unmatched. His reaction time and ability to make seemingly impossible plays were nothing short of legendary.

With numerous Gold Gloves to his name during the 1960s, and an MVP award in 1964, Robinson’s legacy is a blend of stellar defense and timely offense.

Shortstop

Ernie Banks

“Mr. Cub” Ernie Banks was the embodiment of a stellar shortstop. His infectious love for the game, coupled with his outstanding skills on the field, made him a treasured figure in the baseball community.

Though much of his prime was in the 1950s, Banks’ continued excellence into the 1960s, including multiple All-Star appearances, showcases a career that spanned over a remarkable era of baseball history.

Left Field

Carl Yastrzemski

Carl Yastrzemski, fondly known as “Yaz”, was a maestro in left field. His consistency at the plate and his vigilant defense made him a cornerstone of the Boston Red Sox.

Yaz’s crowning achievement came in 1967 with a Triple Crown win, an MVP award, and a Gold Glove, epitomizing the brilliance and versatility of his game.

Center Field

Willie Mays

The “Say Hey Kid” Willie Mays was a spectacle in center field. His athletic prowess, coupled with his charismatic play, made him a jewel of the 1960s baseball scene.

With multiple Gold Gloves, All-Star appearances, and an MVP award in 1965, Mays’ legacy is as golden as the era he graced.

Right Field

Hank Aaron

Hank Aaron’s pursuit of excellence was a hallmark of his game. His powerful swing and steady defense made him a legend in right field.

Aaron’s consistent performance throughout the 1960s, marked by multiple All-Star appearances and a MVP award in 1957, showcased a legend in the making, setting the stage for his iconic run in the 1970s.

The Next 9 Best Players of the 1960s

The 1960s was such a vibrant decade for baseball that just picking a top player for each position doesn’t quite do justice to the treasure trove of talent that graced the fields during this era.

This section goes beyond positions to celebrate nine other maestros who, with their bats, gloves, and cleats, etched unforgettable stories on the baseball diamond.

Bob Gibson

Bob Gibson was a titan on the mound. His intimidating presence and fiery competitiveness made him a pitcher foes dreaded facing.

With two Cy Young Awards and a regular season MVP in 1968, Gibson’s legacy is punctuated with stellar performances that were a blend of skill and heart.

Roberto Clemente

The pride of Puerto Rico, Roberto Clemente was a force to be reckoned with in right field. His cannon arm and graceful hitting were poetry in motion.

Clemente’s 12 Gold Glove Awards, four batting titles, and 15 All-Star game appearances are a testament to his all-around brilliance on the field.

Frank Robinson

A consummate power hitter and a stellar outfielder, Frank Robinson was a blend of power and precision.

With an MVP award in both leagues and a Triple Crown in 1966, Robinson’s impact was profound and his prowess at the plate legendary.

Al Kaline

“Mr. Tiger” Al Kaline was a maestro in the outfield and a consistent threat at the plate, embodying the spirit of baseball with his humble demeanor and relentless work ethic.

A 15-time All-Star and 10-time Gold Glove winner, Kaline’s consistent excellence made him a cornerstone player for the Detroit Tigers.

Ron Santo

Ron Santo was a stalwart at third base, showcasing a blend of defensive genius and offensive firepower.

With five consecutive Gold Glove Awards from 1964 to 1968 and nine All-Star appearances, Santo’s legacy is rich with accolades that speak to his well-rounded game.

Juan Marichal

With a high leg kick and a repertoire of pitches that baffled hitters, Juan Marichal was a picture of pitching elegance.

An impressive 243 career wins and a regular feature in the All-Star games of the 1960s, Marichal was a pitcher who combined flair with effectiveness.

Mickey Mantle

Mickey Mantle’s switch-hitting ability and power from both sides of the plate made him a baseball icon.

Even as injuries began to slow him down in the 1960s, Mantle’s All-Star appearances and a Gold Glove in 1962 showcased the lingering brilliance of a fading star.

Pete Rose

1. Position and Player Selection

Pete Rose’s hustle and heart earned him the nickname “Charlie Hustle,” and his versatility on the field made him a vital asset to his team.

With multiple All-Star appearances across different positions, Rose’s indomitable spirit and love for the game shone brightly throughout the decade.

Willie McCovey

Willie McCovey’s menacing power at the plate made him a feared hitter, and his gentle giant demeanor off the field made him a beloved figure.

With three seasons of 35-plus home runs in the 1960s and an NL MVP award in 1969, McCovey’s impact was felt every time he stepped up to the plate.

The charm of the 1960s baseball scene is not just in the breathtaking performances, but in the stories of rivalry, camaraderie, and the love of the game that these players embodied. Each of these players brought a unique flavor to the game, making the 60s a decade rich in baseball folklore.

Honorable Mentions

The canvas of the 1960s baseball scene was painted with many more stars who shone brightly, albeit perhaps not as dazzlingly as those in our All-Decade Team above. However, their contributions were significant and added a unique hue to the vibrant picture of 1960s baseball.

1. Jim Bunning: His perfect game in 1964 was one of the defining moments of the decade.
2. Maury Wills: A speedster on the bases, he brought the stolen base back into vogue.
3. Denny McLain: The last pitcher to win 30 games in a season, a feat he achieved in 1968.
4. Boog Powell: A key figure in the Orioles’ powerhouse lineup, his prowess at first base was well-regarded.
5. Billy Williams: A model of consistency, Williams was a reliable and graceful presence in the outfield.
6. Luis Aparicio: A wizard with the glove, his defensive antics at shortstop were a joy to behold.
7. Don Drysdale: Known for his intimidating brushback pitches, Drysdale was a fierce competitor on the mound.
8. Vada Pinson: His blend of speed, power, and defensive skills made him a well-rounded player.
9. Tommy Davis: A batting champion who was a key figure in the Dodgers’ lineup.

These players brought a unique blend of skills to the field, be it Jim Bunning’s pitching mastery, Maury Wills’ lightning speed on the bases, or Denny McLain’s remarkable 30-win season.

They might not have made it to our top list, but their legacy is intertwined with the golden threads of 1960s baseball history.

Conclusion

The players featured in the All-Decade Team list embody the rich tapestry of talent prevalent in the 1960s. Their mastery on the field, from Bob Gibson’s dominating presence on the mound to Roberto Clemente’s grace in the outfield, showcased the essence of baseball during this era.

The legacy of these players continues to inspire new generations, setting a benchmark for excellence in the sport. Their achievements are not just stats, but stories of dedication and love for the game that resonate with fans and players alike, making the 1960s a cherished chapter in baseball history.