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Ranking every MLB The Show main‑edition cover athlete based on career achievements and historic impact puts Shohei Ohtani at the very top. This list isn’t just about who looked coolest on the box — it’s about who left the biggest mark on baseball itself. From the franchise’s start in 2006 to the latest releases, we dig into each athlete’s legacy, awards, cultural impact, and overall place in the sport.
Tier 1: The All‑Time Legends
These players aren’t just stars. They’re icons — guys you remember long after they hang up their cleats.
1. Shohei Ohtani (MLB The Show 22)
It feels almost unfair how dominant Ohtani has been. As a two‑way player, he rewrote what was thought possible at the highest level. Multiple All‑Stars, multiple top‑10 MVP finishes, and multiple MVP awards, he changed the conversation about athleticism in baseball. It’s no surprise that his cover remains one of the most talked‑about.
2. Ken Griffey Jr. (MLB The Show 17)
“Junior” is pure baseball nostalgia. The swing, the smile, the centerfield highlight plays — Griffey is one of those players whose name instantly makes you think of baseball’s greatest moments. He finished with 630 homers and remains a Hall of Fame lock.
3. Miguel Cabrera (MLB 14: The Show)
A modern hitting legend. Miggy earned back‑to‑back MVP awards and delivered the first Triple Crown in 45 years in 2012. As an elite bat and hitter of all pitches, his career stands out among his generation.
4. Aaron Judge (MLB The Show 18 & 26)
Judge is unique in this lineup for earning two main covers — and rightfully so. AL MVP, holder of the American League single‑season home run record, and one of the most intimidating bats in the sport. He’s a symbol of power baseball in the 2020s.
5. David Ortiz (MLB 06: The Show)
Big Papi was there at the start, and he set a tone. A legendary clutch postseason performer and an undeniable leader during the Red Sox’s resurgence, Ortiz’s legend goes well beyond the regular season stats.
6. Bryce Harper (MLB The Show 19)
The first overall pick who lived up to the hype. Two MVP awards, consistent elite seasons, and a reputation as one of the toughest hitters in baseball. Harper’s peak years were absolutely special.
Tier 2: Perennial All‑Stars and Hall of Famers
These guys might not all be in the top tier, but their achievements speak volumes.
7. Joe Mauer (MLB 10 & 11: The Show)
A catcher who could hit like a first baseman. Three batting titles and an AL MVP — and the first player to grace back‑to‑back covers. Hall of Fame material through and through.
8. Dustin Pedroia (MLB 09: The Show)
Heart, grit, and production. Pedroia anchored the Red Sox for years, earning Rookie of the Year and MVP honors, along with multiple World Series rings. A true clubhouse leader.
9. Andrew McCutchen (MLB 13: The Show)
Cutch brought excitement back to Pittsburgh. The 2013 NL MVP and perennial All‑Star helped carry the Pirates to relevance again — something fans still appreciate.
10. Josh Donaldson (MLB The Show 16)
“Bringer of Rain” was a force at third base during his peak, winning the 2015 MVP and combining elite defense with consistent power. He may fly under casual fans’ radars, but his impact was real.
11. David Wright (MLB 07: The Show)
Captain America for Mets fans. Wright was a model of consistency and professionalism before injuries cut his prime short. Still a beloved figure and one of the best third basemen of his era.
12. Ryan Howard (MLB 08: The Show)
One of baseball’s most fearsome sluggers in the late 2000s. MVP, World Series champ, and record‑fast to 300 home runs. His peak was brief but thunderous.
Tier 3: Elite High‑Peak Talents
These players had moments — big ones — even if they didn’t sustain Hall of Fame resumes.
13. Adrián González (MLB 12: The Show)
A steady bat with Gold Glove defense and five All‑Star nods. Gonzo was one of the most dependable first basemen of his era.
14. Fernando Tatis Jr. (MLB The Show 21)
Electrifying talent. When healthy and focused, Tatis looks like a generational force. Injuries and off‑field issues have slowed him down, but his raw talent still makes him a standout cover choice.
15. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (MLB The Show 24)
The bat is real. Vlad Jr.’s 2021 runner‑up MVP season and Home Run Derby performance showed he belongs among the elite bats of his generation.
16. Javier Báez (MLB The Show 20)
“El Mago” brought flair, defense, and highlight plays. A bit inconsistent at the plate later, but his defensive wizardry and peak years make him unforgettable.
Tier 4: The Next Generation & Bright Futures
These covers represent players still writing their stories — and some early chapters have already been thrilling.
17. Gunnar Henderson (MLB The Show 25)
Already a Rookie of the Year and elite shortstop. Henderson looks like a future perennial All‑Star and cornerstone player.
18. Paul Skenes (MLB The Show 25)
One of the most dominant pitching debuts in recent memory. If he continues on this path, he could redefine pitching excellence for years to come.
19. Elly De La Cruz (MLB The Show 25)
A highlight reel every night. Speed, power, fun — he’s one of the most exciting young players in the game, and there’s still more to come.
20. Jazz Chisholm Jr. (MLB The Show 23)
Energy incarnate. Injuries have slowed his ascent, but at peak, Jazz plays the game with a flair few others match.
21. Yasiel Puig (MLB 15: The Show)
Puig burst onto the scene with raw energy and talent, becoming an instant fan favorite. His production slowed later in his career, but that debut impact was electric.
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