Philly Leader

Shortstops aren’t traditionally known for their power hitting. Historically, the position has been associated with defense and speed rather than slugging prowess. However, a new generation of shortstops is challenging this notion, combining defensive skills with significant offensive contributions.

"In the '80s, it was stereotyped as an all-glove, speed, defense and light-bat position," said Orioles general manager Mike Elias. "Since the '90s and early 2000s for sure, when you had that era with Nomar [Garciaparra], [Derek] Jeter and A-Rod, and then through now, it's just turned into more of a superstar position."

This season’s crop of shortstops includes Bobby Witt Jr., Gunnar Henderson, Elly De La Cruz, Corey Seager, Francisco Lindor, and Trea Turner—players who exemplify this shift by excelling both offensively and defensively.

According to wRC+, a stat that adjusts for ballpark effects and era differences where 100 represents league average, this year’s shortstops have collectively achieved a wRC+ of 102. This is the highest in any year during the Live Ball Era spanning 125 seasons. Furthermore, FanGraphs’ Wins Above Replacement (WAR) metric indicates that this year's group is on pace to surpass the single-season record for shortstops set in 2019.

Four players—Witt Jr., Henderson, Lindor, and De La Cruz—have already surpassed the 5-WAR mark this season. Notably, only Lindor among them is older than 25.

Shortstops are also performing well across various batting metrics compared to other positions. This season's shortstops have a collective .257 batting average—the highest in MLB—and rank second in on-base percentage (OBP), slugging percentage (SLG), and OPS behind designated hitters.

The performance surge isn't limited to established stars but includes emerging talents like Henderson and Witt Jr., who are making significant impacts early in their careers. Henderson has already hit 33 home runs this season while Witt leads MLB with a .352 batting average.

De La Cruz has shown marked improvement from his rookie year stats to become one of MLB's most exciting young players. Other notable performers include Zach Neto of the Angels and Oneil Cruz of the Pirates.

Historically weak-hitting shortstops are becoming rare as teams increasingly value offensive production alongside defensive capabilities at the position. "We’re a little more realistic about the types of physical animals they're actually going to be competing with when they get to the Major League level to win that shortstop job," Elias noted.

Reds president Nick Krall attributes part of this transformation to Cal Ripken Jr., who redefined what was possible for larger athletes at shortstop. "[Cal Ripken Jr.] started it... then you had A-Rod... where it wasn’t just the scrappy guy that could really field."

The analytics movement has further emphasized offensive production across all batting order spots. Royals general manager J.J. Picollo observed that teams now prioritize hitting ability even at traditionally defense-first positions like shortstop: "With shortstop... you're talking more about if he's going to hit or not."

International scouting has also played a crucial role in elevating talent levels at shortstop positions globally. Elias highlighted how improved international scouting efficiency has raised overall standards: "They have raised the bar for the position... It's raised the talent level."

Looking ahead, young talents such as Ezequiel Tovar of the Rockies and Anthony Volpe of the Yankees promise continued excellence at shortstop. Prospects like Jackson Holliday and Jordan Lawlar add further depth to an already strong pool.

As Picollo summed up: "Redefining the shortstop position might be what's happening... That's going to be what you're targeting in future.”

MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand and Jonathan Mayo contributed reporting to this story.

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