New York Mets: Five best shortstops in franchise history
3. Rey Ordonez
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Here is a guy that was known solely because of his prowess with the glove. Let’s face it, Rey Ordonez could not hit even a little. His career average was a whopping .246. He never stole very many bases nor did he draw walks. Ordonez was able to lay down a sacrifice bunt if necessary but that was the extent of his effectiveness.
In the field, however, it was a completely different story. Ordonez is arguably the best defensive shortstop we have ever seen. He would, at times, bring back memories of Ozzie Smith. He won three straight Gold Gloves from 1997-1999, and he was part of the 1999 infield that was dubbed the best infield ever. That group included Robin Ventura and third base, Edgardo Alfonzo at second and John Olerud at first base.
In 1999 his fielding percentage was .994 as he only committed four errors, and from 1999-2000 Ordonez went 101 games without committing a fielding error. He was that good that he makes this list without being any good at the plate. His career essentially ended when he broke his arm in 2000 making a tag, but that doesn’t take away the performances before the injury. Ordonez was simply a wonderful player to watch play his position.