Best MLB Shortstops from 2000-2010

"AROD" was traded from the Rangers to the Yankees in 2004, and subsequently moved from Shortstop to Third Base. (to make room for Derek Jeter) But from 2000-2003, he did enough to easily make the top ten on this list. Afterall, he made it look easy, being in the top five in total SB and HR, all from the shortstop position - which is usually reserved for defensive specialist and pinch runners.

Jeter can be considered for this list for many reasons. But all those reasons combined make him the clear cut NUMBER ONE. He has power numbers, including doubles, triples and Home Runs. He steals bases well above average. Every year - he's top five in runs scored and RBI amongst shortstops. And he's a clutch player, getting his biggest hits on the biggest of stages, and ultimately being a huge contributor to the Yankees unprecidented post-season success through out the era. His range has taken a hit in recent years, but his fieding percentage is still tops in the league and Derek Jeter is certain to be a first ballot Hall of Famer.

The Rockies seemed to have hit a gold mine with this power hitting speedster. He can hit a ton of home runs, but if he ends up with a single, he can easily steal second and get into scoring position.

Frequently considered for MVP voting, Ramirez has been the dreaded memory of Red Sox fans since he was traded to the Marlins. All he's done since then is play some very solid defense and put up BY FAR the best offensive numbers of all short stops.

If not for allegations of possible steroids use, and the subsequent drop in statistical numbers, Tejada might have made it to NUMBER ONE. His career path was once thought to be sure fire first ballot Hall of Famer. At this point he's easily one of the top 5 shortstops of the 2000's but his Hall of Fame votes may be limited by questions of whether he was "juicing."

Although Aurilia's defensive skills have recently deteriorated, he was once a top ranked shortstop, and in 2001 had a career high 37 HR.

He was consistently one of the top power hitters from the Shortstop position, always htting in the top 5 in doubles and top in HR by shortstop. Unfortunately, his lack of batting average and range will prevent him from moving up on the list, but he has proven to be a very nice addition to any lineup with his ability to drive in runs.

Andrus is an up and coming player who appears likely to be a top ten shortstop in the 2010-2020 ratings, and would certainly be alot higher if he had come into MLB sooner.