The most legendary Phillies shortstops of all time

Who are the greatest second basemen in Philadelphia Phillies franchise history?

In the long and storied history of the Philadelphia Phillies, there have been many legendary players.

Since MLB is currently in lockout and teams can’t sign anyone new, we’re looking back at the most legendary players to ever wear the Phillies uniform. We started with starting pitchers, then called to the bullpen, followed by catchers, first base, second, and now, short.

Discussing this position is particularly timely, as the Phillies are currently trying to figure out how to manage shortstops in 2022. Didi Gregorius is under contract for one more season, and the club owes him over $15M for it. However, he’s coming off a terrible season, and if the Phillies want a chance of competing this year, they need to upgrade. Top prospect Bryson Stott is a very intriguing option, as are several free agents.

But for now, here are the five most legendary shortstops in Phillies history…

5. Dave Bancroft, 1915-1920 Phillies

Dave Bancroft had a Hall of Fame career, but he spent most of it with other teams.

Bancroft made his big-league debut with the Phillies in 1915, playing 153 games and leading the National League by getting caught stealing bases 27 times.

While he never really hit for power (32 career home runs over 1,913 games), Bancroft displayed plate discipline unheard of in today’s game. Over 681 games with the Phillies, he drew 289 walks and only struck out 239 times.

After six seasons with the Phillies, he was traded to the New York Giants for another shortstop, Art Fletcher. With the Giants, he’d win two World Series rings.