The all time best starting lineup in baseball would have to have Nolan Ryan as the starting pitcher. He has power with routine fastballs over 100 mph. Control is no problem as he has over 5000 strikeouts in his career. He has the ability to keep the batter guessing or just overpower him, as he has 7 no hitters to his credit. He would have to be the first choice to start, hands down.

A pitcher needs a good receiver,and no one could question my choice for catcher if all things are considered. Johnny Bench is an excellent choice for catcher, as he has sure hands, smart in handling pitchers, one of the best throws to second base ever seen, and he can hit. Many catchers could par with bench behind the plate, but none could do what he did defensively as well as offensively. He could always be counted on to get the clutch hit or home run. I have even seen him steal a base on occasion.

First base is tough, as many good hitters are put there just to hid their fielding. I see this a a mistake because that can come back to haunt you in crucial situations. That is why I pick Steve Garvey for first base. He was one of the best fielders and he could hit with power or finesse. He was one of the most difficult outs for any pitcher he faced. He could be counted on in the clutch every time.

Second base is easy. Hands down, my choice is Joe Morgan. Not only do I pick him as second baseman, I also would consider him as player manager. The guy knows baseball as well as any man that has ever lived. He played gold glove second base, stole bases like it was a cake walk, hit in the clutch and hit with great power. He is the most complete baseball package I have ever seen play.

Short stop is difficult. Defensively, the "Wizard of Oz" or Ozzie Smith is unbeatable, but I would pick Barry Larkin instead. Barry is almost as good as Ozzie in the field, but offensively he was incredible too.

Third base is also tough. Brooks Robinson is one memorable player at that position, but remember, Pete Rose also played first as one of his many positions I think Rose played third the best of any position he played, and he was a gold glover at more than one. Offensively Pete has to get the nod, after all, he had over 4000 hits. Pete could be counted on to get on base, if he had to mug the umpire to do it.

Center field can have no other person considered but the great Willy Mays. He could do it all. Everything! Period! Chalk his name in and move on.

Right field would

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