Who is the Shortest Active MLB Player?
As of 2021, the shortest active Major League Baseball (MLB) player is 5 feet 5 inch infielder, Jose Altuve. He is a two-time American League MVP, a six-time All-Star, and a 2017 World Series champion with the Houston Astros. Since entering the league in 2011, Altuve has established himself as one of the MLB’s best players and is widely regarded as one of the best second basemen in baseball history.
Jose Altuve’s Career
Altuve was signed by the Astros in 2007, at the age of 16, as an international free agent from Maracay, Venezuela. He made his MLB debut in 2011, and since then he has become one of the most successful players in the game. He has been selected to six All-Star Games (2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018). He won the AL batting title in 2014 and 2016 and was runner-up in 2015. In 2017, Altuve was named the AL MVP, and he helped the Astros win their first World Series title in franchise history. In 2019, he was again named AL MVP and also won his fourth batting title.
Altuve’s Impressive Statistics
In his 11-year career, Altuve has compiled an impressive .311/.362/.443 slash line, with a .805 OPS, 1,321 hits, 188 home runs, and 568 RBIs. He has also won three Gold Glove Awards (2015, 2016 and 2019) and two Silver Slugger Awards (2014 and 2017). Altuve is a career .330 hitter in the postseason, with seven home runs and 28 RBIs in 36 playoff games.
The Other Shortest MLB Players
Altuve is not the only short player in the MLB, but he is the shortest active player. Other short players include:
- Miguel Rojas, shortstop for the Miami Marlins, who is 5’7”
- Billy Hamilton, outfielder for the New York Mets, who is 5’10”
- Mallex Smith, outfielder for the Seattle Mariners, who is 5’9”
- Jose Ramirez, third baseman for the Cleveland Indians, who is 5’9”
- Yadiel Rivera, infielder for the Oakland Athletics, who is 5’9”
The Shortest Players in MLB History
In addition to the current crop of short players in the MLB, there have been a number of short players in MLB history. The shortest players in MLB history include:
- Eddie Gaedel, who was 3’7” and played one game for the St. Louis Browns in 1951
- Freddie Patek, who was 5’5” and played 15 seasons for five teams between 1967 and 1981
- Dave Roth, who was 5’6” and played three seasons for three teams between 1967 and 1970
- Midget Farrelly, who was 5’5” and played three seasons for two teams between 1929 and 1931
Altuve’s Impact on the Astros
Altuve has been the face of the Astros for the last decade, and his impact on the team has been undeniable. He is the franchise leader in hits, runs, doubles, and stolen bases and is second in home runs and RBIs. He is also the all-time leader in extra-base hits and total bases, as well as the team leader in batting average, on-base percentage, and OPS.
The Astros have been one of the most successful teams in baseball since Altuve joined the team in 2011. The team has won four division titles, two American League pennants, and the 2017 World Series championship. Altuve has been a key part of the team’s success, and his presence has been felt both on and off the field.
Altuve’s Impact on the Fans
Altuve is a fan favorite both in Houston and around the league. He is known for his infectious smile and his hustle and determination on the field. Altuve has become a role model for young players, showing that size does not matter, and he is an inspiration for those who have been told that they are too small to pursue their dreams.
Altuve’s Impact on the League
Altuve’s success in the MLB has had a lasting impact on the game. He has shown that size is not a barrier to success, and he has proven that hard work and dedication can overcome any obstacle. His success has also led to more opportunities for international players, who now have a better chance of making it to the majors.
Conclusion
At 5 feet 5 inches, Jose Altuve is the shortest active player in the MLB. He is a six-time All-Star, two-time American League MVP, and 2017 World Series Champion. Altuve has been one of the most successful players in the game since he entered the league in 2011, and he has established himself as one of the best second basemen of all time. He has been a key part of the Astros’ success and has been an inspiration for young players around the world. Altuve’s legacy will live on for years to come, and he will continue to be an example of what hard work and dedication can achieve.