12 Oldest Active MLB Players

Baseball is a game of endurance, skill, and passion. Some MLB players defy age, continuing to compete at the highest level well into their 40s. These seasoned athletes showcase unmatched commitment and remain vital to their teams. Their careers span decades, filled with highlights and achievements. Below is a list of the oldest active MLB players, proving age is just a number in the sport they love.

Rich Hill

Rich Hill is the oldest active player in Major League Baseball. At 44, he plays as a starting pitcher for the San Diego Padres. Hill made his MLB debut on June 15, 2005, with the Chicago Cubs. Known for his devastating curveball, he has played for 13 different MLB teams, including the Dodgers and Red Sox. Injuries plagued his early years, but he revitalized his career in his mid-30s. Over his 19-year journey, he has achieved over 90 wins and more than 1,300 strikeouts. Hill’s perseverance and leadership make him an inspiration to teammates and fans alike.

Justin Verlander

Justin Verlander remains one of the most dominant pitchers in the game. At 41, he is a key player for the Houston Astros. He made his MLB debut on July 4, 2005, with the Detroit Tigers. Verlander has accumulated over 250 wins and 3,300 strikeouts in his illustrious career. He has won two Cy Young Awards and the AL MVP Award in 2011. Known for his durability and late-game velocity, he has also earned multiple World Series titles. Even after Tommy John surgery in 2020, Verlander returned stronger than ever. His longevity and competitive spirit set him apart as one of baseball’s greatest.

Jesse Chavez

Jesse Chavez is a versatile and experienced pitcher, currently with the Atlanta Braves. He made his MLB debut on August 27, 2008, with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Chavez has played for 10 MLB teams during his career, primarily as a reliever but also as a spot starter. He has logged over 1,000 innings and nearly 900 strikeouts. Known for his ability to adapt to different roles, Chavez is a dependable bullpen option. His calm demeanor and veteran leadership are invaluable assets. At 41, Chavez continues to provide stability and consistency to his team.

Charlie Morton

Charlie Morton is a crucial part of the Atlanta Braves rotation. At 41, he remains one of the league’s most reliable starting pitchers. Morton debuted on June 14, 2008, with the Braves and later found success with teams like the Astros and Rays. He earned two All-Star selections and a World Series ring in 2017 with Houston. Known for his sinking fastball and ability to perform under pressure, he has over 1,800 strikeouts in his career. His durability and postseason success have made him a go-to player in critical moments. Morton continues to lead by example on and off the field.

Zack Greinke

Zack Greinke is a seasoned pitcher currently playing for the Kansas City Royals. He made his MLB debut on May 22, 2004, with the same Royals team, marking a remarkable career that has come full circle. Greinke is a six-time All-Star, six-time Gold Glove winner, and a Cy Young Award recipient in 2009. Known for his masterful control and ability to outwit hitters, Greinke has accumulated over 2,900 strikeouts and more than 220 career wins. His pitch variety and strategic mindset have kept him effective as he’s aged. At 41, Greinke remains a valuable veteran presence on the mound and a mentor to younger pitchers.

David Robertson

David Robertson is a veteran closer and relief pitcher currently playing for the Miami Marlins. He debuted on June 29, 2008, with the New York Yankees and was part of their 2009 World Series-winning team. Over his career, Robertson has amassed over 1,000 strikeouts and more than 150 saves. Known for his sharp cutter and ability to escape jams, he is a trusted bullpen option. Despite battling injuries in the mid-2010s, he made a successful comeback to the league. At 39, Robertson continues to deliver in high-leverage situations, showcasing his poise and experience.

Justin Turner

Justin Turner is a seasoned infielder currently playing for the Boston Red Sox. He made his MLB debut on September 8, 2009, with the Baltimore Orioles. Turner found his stride with the Los Angeles Dodgers, becoming a fan favorite and a clutch postseason performer. Over his career, he has over 1,300 hits, 150 home runs, and a .289 batting average. Known for his consistency at the plate and leadership in the clubhouse, Turner helped the Dodgers secure a World Series title in 2020. At 39, he remains a reliable offensive contributor and a steady presence on the field.

Adam Ottavino

Adam Ottavino is a veteran reliever known for his wicked slider. Currently with the New York Mets, he debuted on May 29, 2010, with the St. Louis Cardinals. Ottavino’s ability to generate strikeouts and induce weak contact has made him a valuable bullpen piece. Over his career, he has accumulated over 700 strikeouts in nearly 600 innings pitched. His adaptability and precision allow him to thrive in high-leverage situations. At 39, Ottavino continues to anchor the Mets’ bullpen with experience and poise.

Matt Carpenter

Matt Carpenter is an infielder with a strong track record of offensive production. Currently playing for the San Diego Padres, Carpenter made his MLB debut on June 4, 2011, with the St. Louis Cardinals. He is a three-time All-Star and a former Silver Slugger Award winner. Carpenter’s career includes over 1,200 hits, 175 home runs, and nearly 700 RBIs. Known for his plate discipline and clutch hitting, he played a key role in the Cardinals’ postseason runs during his tenure. At 38, Carpenter brings veteran leadership and versatility to the Padres.

Carlos Santana

Carlos Santana is a first baseman renowned for his power and patience at the plate. He currently plays for the Milwaukee Brewers. Santana debuted on June 11, 2010, with the Cleveland Guardians (then Indians). Over his career, he has hit more than 300 home runs and driven in over 1,100 runs. His ability to draw walks and deliver in key moments has been a hallmark of his success. A 2019 All-Star, Santana remains a dependable hitter and defensive player. At 38, he continues to be a steady contributor to his team’s offense.

Chris Martin

Chris Martin is a reliable reliever currently pitching for the Boston Red Sox. He made his MLB debut on April 26, 2014, with the Colorado Rockies. Martin’s journey includes playing overseas in Japan before returning to MLB and establishing himself as a dependable bullpen option. Known for his control and ability to limit walks, he has posted impressive strikeout-to-walk ratios throughout his career. At 38, Martin continues to deliver steady performances in high-pressure situations, making him a valuable asset to the Red Sox.

Yu Darvish

Yu Darvish is an ace pitcher for the San Diego Padres, known for his extensive pitch arsenal. He made his MLB debut on April 9, 2012, with the Texas Rangers after a successful career in Japan’s NPB. Darvish is a six-time All-Star and has amassed over 1,800 strikeouts in MLB. His ability to mix speeds and locations keeps hitters guessing. Darvish’s durability and skill make him a consistent force in the Padres’ rotation. At 38, he remains one of the league’s premier starting pitchers.

This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.

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