by Wes Swan

Created on: July 16, 2009   Last Updated: July 18, 2009

The greatest shortstop in history in history is a great debate, spanning over several generations with Honus Wagner, Ozzie Smith, Cal Ripken and Derek Jeter.

As baseball is a numbers game I decided to break the four down. Shortstops control the defence and are usually the most talented defensive player on their team. Honus Wagner had a fielding percentage of .947%. This average is low for a great shortstop.

Ozzie Smith know as the Wizard was considered one of the most talented fielders of all time. His career fielding percentage was 978%. He was a 13 time gold glove winner more than any other shortstop.

Cal Ripken know as the iron man had a fielding percentage of .977% just below Ozzie Smith.

Derek Jeter know as Mr.November possesses a fielding percentage of .975%, below Smith and Ripken.

A large part of being a tremendous shortstop is batting. Honus Wagner made up for his poor fielding by having a batting average of .327%. Not known for his power however having only 100 home runs.

Ozzie Smith was considerable weaker at the plate, having a .262% batting average with 28 home runs.

Cal Ripken was below .300% as well having a average of .276% however with over 400 home runs.

Jeter has a batting average of .316%, and added 200 home runs.

Considering the following stats it seems as though Derek Jeter is the more rounded shortstop and is the easy choice for greatest all time. Not only has he achieved high stats throughout his career but has achieved the highest pinnacle for any player, winning the world series. Jeter has done this 4 times.

Derek has dazzled fans with spectacular plays with the bat and the glove including a flip play at home in the 2001 ALDS. This play was ranked 7th on Baseball Weekly's most memorable plays of all time.

Jeter has played the game like a true professional and gentlemen. During a game against Seattle in 1999 a bench clearing brawl broke out. Jeter was seen however laughing with good friend Alex Rodriguez.

Despite being heavily criticized on his defensive play Jeter has continued to play hard and become the greatest shortstop of all time.

Many have played the game of baseball but few have made it look as pure and easy as Derek Jeter. Although he is being paid to play, Jeter is having a noticeable amount of fun playing the game that he loves.

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