Utility players have an interesting role in the MLB, and it's not an easy one. The best utility players in baseball can play nearly any position (with the exception of pitcher), and they're also expected to contribute in the batting lineup—and some are even the top hitters in baseball. Whether they're making diving plays alongside leading outfielders or turning two at second base, the top MLB utility players may not always have a place on the field, but they're key players nonetheless. When it comes to a list of the best current MLB utility players, guys like D.J. LeMahieu, Ketel Marte, and Ian Happ are certainly making it toward the top. Yet you also have to consider the ever-versatile Marwin Gonzalez and slugger David Fletcher, among many other players who can perform almost anywhere they're put on the field. Who do you think are the top utility players in baseball right now? Kike Hernández? Charlie Culberson? Take a look at the list of best utility players currently in the MLB and vote up the guys you think are the most versatile. You can also add others that may be missing from the list.
Tap upor downto vote. Your vote is added to Ranker's counts.
Voting identifies your browser with an anonymous fingerprint, stored only as a salted hash, to count one per visitor. Privacy
Source: Ranker, ranked by its voters.
Ketel Marte demonstrates a unique blend of speed, power, and defensive acumen that sets him apart from other utility players. As a switch-hitter who can play center field, second base, and shortstop, Marte's versatility allows his team to take advantage of his multiple talents while keeping opposing pitchers on their toes. Off the field, his infectious energy, jovial laughter, and fun-loving nature have endeared him to teammates and fans alike.
Tommy Edman's savvy baseball instincts and gritty attitude have allowed him to excel at multiple positions, primarily as an infielder and outfielder. His ability to find gaps in defenses and terrorize opponents on the basepaths showcases his all-around skillset, making him a valuable asset for any team. Additionally, his quirky sense of humor and laid-back demeanor off the field make him a fan favorite.
Kike Hernández's versatility on the diamond and consistency at the plate have solidified his status as a valuable utility player. Able to excel in numerous infield and outfield positions, Hernandez's broad range of abilities has proven to be an asset for his team. Off the field, his infectious enthusiasm and fondness for entertaining antics have made him a favorite among teammates and fans alike.
Pitcher and designated hitter extraordinaire, Shohei Ohtani's incredible versatility has redefined what it means to be a utility player in the MLB. Known for his jaw-dropping talent both on the mound and at the plate, fans love Ohtani for not only his impressive skills, but also his humble attitude and occasional lighthearted antics. As the rare dual-threat capable of dominating as a pitcher and hitter, Ohtani has truly made an indelible impact on the sport.
Jake Cronenworth burst onto the scene with his slick defensive skills and clutch hitting, rapidly establishing himself as one of the premier utility players in the league. Capable of playing multiple infield positions while also providing a potent bat, Cronenworth has made a name for himself as a rising star. His penchant for keeping things light-hearted in the dugout, meanwhile, has endeared him to fans and teammates alike.
The epitome of "jack of all trades," Chris Taylor's ability to excel in multiple positions has allowed him to be a mainstay in lineups throughout his career. With slick fielding prowess and a knack for timely hitting, Taylor has been a crucial asset to his team as they contend for championships year after year. Fans adore Taylor for his workman-like dedication to the game and his fearless approach to any challenge that comes his way.
Jeff McNeil's versatility in the field and consistency at the plate have earned him a reputation as a reliable utility player. Capable of playing multiple infield and outfield positions, McNeil's diverse skillset has been invaluable for his team. Off the field, his quirky sense of humor and love for fun team-building activities have endeared him to teammates and fans alike.
Max Muncy's versatile abilities at first base, second base, and third base have been key to his team's success, as well as his impressive power at the plate. Whether he's launching towering home runs or saving runs with his glove, Muncy always finds a way to contribute to his team's victories. Known for his quick wit and playful banter, Muncy never shies away from keeping the mood light in the clubhouse.
Known for his tenacity and scrappy play style, Whit Merrifield embodies the utility player mentality. As a skilled hitter and versatile fielder who can play multiple positions, Merrifield's impact on the game is felt in myriad ways. His lighthearted nature and seemingly endless supply of dad jokes make him a fan favorite among his peers and supporters.
A steady presence in any position he plays, D. J. LeMahieu combines exceptional fielding abilities with a patient approach at the plate that has made him one of the most reliable utility players in the league. Having played all over the infield throughout his career, LeMahieu has developed a reputation for adapting seamlessly to new defensive assignments. Moreover, his humble personality and dry wit have made him a fan favorite.
Cody Bellinger's unique blend of power and speed, combined with his ability to play both infield and outfield positions, make him an invaluable utility player. His smooth defensive skills and excellent offensive production have contributed greatly to his team's success. Fans adore Bellinger for his cool, laid-back demeanor and fun-loving personality that shines through both on and off the field.
Ian Happ's powerful bat and ability to play both infield and outfield positions have made him a valuable utility player for his team. With his smooth defensive skills and penchant for coming through in clutch moments, Happ has forged a reputation as a reliable asset. Equally important, his fun-loving attitude and camaraderie with teammates make him a fan favorite both on and off the field.
As a slick-fielding shortstop with a knack for hitting for power, Marcus Semien has proven to be a game-changing utility player throughout his career. Able to play second and third base as well, Semien's adaptability and steady presence have made him an integral part of his team's success. Fans love Semien not just for his elite skills, but also for his leadership qualities and affable demeanor.
With the ability to play first base and left field, Ryan Mountcastle has quickly emerged as a versatile utility player in the MLB. Combining strong defensive skills with a powerful bat, Mountcastle has already made a significant impact on his team. Fans are drawn to his magnetic personality and genuine passion for the game.
Jurickson Profar's well-rounded skillset and ability to play infield and outfield positions have made him an instrumental utility player in the MLB. His diverse talents allow his team to take advantage of matchup opportunities while keeping the opposition guessing. Profar's infectious smile and genuine love for the game have made him a fan favorite.
As a young slugger capable of playing both corner infield positions, Alec Bohm has quickly established himself as one of the MLB's rising utility stars. His impressive power at the plate is complemented by his ability to provide steady defense, making him an invaluable asset to his team. Off the field, Bohm's laid-back demeanor and easygoing personality make it easy for fans to root for him.
Brandon Lowe's versatile defensive skills and powerful bat have made him a force to be reckoned with as a utility player. Capable of playing multiple infield positions as well as outfield, Lowe provides invaluable flexibility for his team. His affable nature and penchant for keeping things light in the dugout make him a beloved figure among fans and teammates.
Nick Castellanos has made a name for himself as a potent hitter and versatile fielder, capable of playing multiple outfield and infield positions. His impressive offensive skills combined with his reliable defense make him a valuable asset to any team. Off the field, Castellanos' easygoing nature and charismatic personality have earned him the admiration of fans and teammates alike.
Isiah Kiner-Falefa's unique blend of exceptional infield and catching skills have made him a standout utility player in the MLB. Capable of playing shortstop, third base, and catcher, Kiner-Falefa's adaptability is a major asset for his team. Known for his strong work ethic and engaging personality, he has quickly become a fan favorite.
Cavan Biggio's ability to excel at multiple infield and outfield positions, combined with his keen eye at the plate, have established him as a formidable utility player. His adaptable skillset and strong baseball instincts contribute significantly to his team's success. Fans love Biggio for his friendly nature and the infectious energy he brings with him both on and off the field.
Though primarily known for his tremendous offensive prowess, Yordan Álvarez's ability to slot into multiple positions, including designated hitter and outfielder, make him a valuable utility player. His prodigious power and keen eye at the plate are essential to his team's offensive success. Off the field, his humble personality and charismatic presence have endeared him to fans and teammates alike.
Jorge Polanco's smooth fielding skills and ability to play both middle infield positions make him an essential utility player in the MLB. Contributing both offensively and defensively, Polanco's versatility has been crucial to his team's success. On top of his on-field talents, Polanco's affable nature and genuine enthusiasm for the game have made him a beloved figure among fans.
Yandy Díaz's impressive strength and ability to play both corner infield positions have made him a valuable utility player in the majors. Armed with a potent bat and solid defense, Díaz contributes significantly to his team's performance. His positive attitude and camaraderie with teammates make him a beloved figure among fans.
Ty France has emerged as a versatile utility player in the MLB, with a powerful bat and the ability to excel at various infield positions. His combination of offensive prowess and defensive skills has made him an integral part of his team's success. Known for his laid-back disposition and camaraderie with teammates, France has quickly become a fan favorite.
Wilmer Flores' steady infield defense, coupled with his clutch hitting, makes him an exceptional utility player. Capable of playing various positions across the infield, Flores offers invaluable versatility to his team. Fans appreciate his determined approach to the game, as well as his genuine, relatable nature off the field.
Ryan McMahon's powerful swing and defensive versatility have made him a valuable utility player in the majors. Playing both corner infield positions as well as second base, McMahon's flexibility is a boon to his team. Off the field, his easygoing personality and camaraderie with teammates make him a fan favorite.
Jean Segura's impressive speed, defensive versatility, and consistent hitting have cemented his status as a premier utility player in the MLB. Capable of playing shortstop, second base, and third base, Segura's adaptability is a major asset for any team. Fans appreciate not just his on-field talents, but also his infectious smile and outgoing personality.
J. D. Martinez, primarily known for his extraordinary offensive skills, has also been valuable as a utility player due to his ability to play both corner outfield positions and designated hitter. His consistent production at the plate is a key component of his team's success. Off the field, Martinez's charismatic presence and genuine love for the game have endeared him to fans and teammates alike.
Dylan Moore's impressive athletic ability and versatility, with the capacity to excel at multiple infield and outfield positions, have made him a valuable utility player in the MLB. His combination of speed and power contributes significantly to his team's performance. Fans appreciate Moore's tenacious approach to the game and his spirited, competitive nature.
Alex Bregman's outstanding all-around skills and ability to play both shortstop and third base make him a premier utility player in the MLB. His exceptional offensive and defensive talents contribute significantly to his team's performance. Known for his charismatic personality and fierce competitive spirit, Bregman is a fan favorite both on and off the field.
Joey Gallo's immense power at the plate and ability to play both corner infield and outfield positions make him a valuable utility player. His towering home runs and strong defensive skills contribute significantly to his team's success. Known for his gregarious nature and sense of humor, Gallo has quickly become a fan favorite.
Dominic Smith's potent bat and ability to play first base and left field make him a valuable utility player. His consistent offensive production, coupled with his steady defense, contributes to his team's success. Fans admire Smith for his unwavering dedication to the game and his genuine, good-natured demeanor off the field.
