José Ramírez Ranked 5th on MLB Network's Top 100 Players List for 2026

Guardians' third baseman rises from 9th place in 2025, trailing Ohtani, Judge, Witt Jr., and Raleigh

Apr. 12, 2026 at 10:56pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a baseball game or match, with the players and field broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes in vibrant colors, capturing the energy and movement of the sport.José Ramírez's rise to the top 5 of MLB's elite players list reflects the Guardians' continued contention and the star third baseman's dynamic impact on the game.Kansas City Today

José Ramírez, the Guardians' star third baseman, has been ranked 5th on MLB Network's Top 100 Players Right Now list for 2026. This marks a significant jump from his 9th place ranking the previous year, solidifying his status as one of the league's elite players. The four-time American League MVP finalist was ranked ahead of Mets slugger Juan Soto but behind the likes of Shohei Ohtani, Aaron Judge, Bobby Witt Jr., and Cal Raleigh.

Why it matters

Ramírez's rise to the top 5 of MLB Network's prestigious rankings underscores his consistent excellence and impact on the Guardians' lineup. As one of the game's most dynamic players, his continued ascent further cements his place among the sport's superstars and highlights the Guardians' status as a perennial contender in the AL Central.

The details

Ramírez's 5th place ranking on the MLB Network Top 100 list is a significant jump from his 9th place finish in 2025. The network's evaluators cited his impressive performance over recent seasons, with a strong emphasis on his 2025 campaign and projected 2026 production. Ramírez's teammate, Steven Kwan, also made the list at No. 75.

  • Ramírez was ranked 9th on the MLB Network Top 100 Players list in 2025.
  • The 2026 MLB Network Top 100 Players list was revealed on Thursday, April 12, 2026.

The players

José Ramírez

The Guardians' star third baseman and four-time American League MVP finalist.

Bobby Witt Jr.

The Royals' standout shortstop who topped Ramírez in the AL Central Division rankings.

Juan Soto

The Mets' slugging outfielder who was ranked behind Ramírez on the MLB Network Top 100 list.

Cal Raleigh

The Seattle Mariners catcher who was ranked ahead of Ramírez as the 2025 Major League Player of the Year.

Steven Kwan

Ramírez's Guardians teammate who also made the MLB Network Top 100 list at No. 75.

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What they’re saying

“José Ramírez is a one-man wrecking crew. His impact on the Guardians' lineup is undeniable.”

— Cliff Floyd, MLB Network Analyst

What’s next

The Guardians will look to build on Ramírez's individual success and lead the team to a division title and deep playoff run in the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Ramírez's rise to the top 5 of MLB Network's prestigious rankings solidifies his status as one of the game's elite players and underscores the Guardians' continued contention in the AL Central. His consistent excellence and impact on the team's lineup make him a must-watch player in the 2026 season.