THE Rankings: Top 5 Mets Third Basemen

We move now to third base, historically the most troublesome position for the Mets. They’ve had some luck lately finding a guy to anchor the position, but it wasn’t always that way. They say 687 men played third base for the Mets in the past 50 years. That seems about right.

1) David Wright (2004-present)

Obviously. Wright is already the all-time Mets leader in hits, runs, RBIs and walks. With his new eight-year contract, he will eventually hold all of the Mets records by the time he calls it quits. Wright has made the All-Star team six times and won two Gold Gloves.

2) Howard Johnson (1985-1993)

Johnson is also right up there among Mets leaders — fourth in home runs, RBIs, doubles and runs. He hit 30 or more home runs three times and made two All-Star teams.

3) Robin Ventura (1999-2001)

I always thought Ventura’s Mets career was a bit overrated. He had an incredible first season, hitting .301 with 32 home runs and 120 RBIs while winning the Gold Glove — one of the best Mets seasons ever. However he tailed off the following two years and was dealt to the Yankees for the final year of his contract.

4) Hubie Brooks (1980-1984, 1991)

Brooks was a pretty good player, good enough to the be main player in the trade for Gary Carter. Brooks hit .307 in 1981 as he finished third in the Rookie of the Year voting.

5) Wayne Garrett (1969-1976)

Garrett makes the list because of his longevity and for being on the 1969 and 1973 World Series teams. Oh, and because there really was no other better guy.

To see more rankings in this series, click here.

Mug Shots courtesy Ultimate Mets Database