Best Active Canadian Baseball Players

It is a given that professional baseball is dominated by Americans.  About 3/4 of active players in the MLB, the most renowned professional baseball league in the world, are American.  Despite all the stereotypes and odds, several Canadian baseball players have shined on the big stage and proven that Canada has serious talent to offer.

3. James Paxton, Starting Pitcher, Seattle Mariners
    British Columbia

After a disappointing 2016 season, Paxton found his groove in the offseason and has pitched to a 1.76 earned run average (ERA) in 7 starts, second best in the MLB.  Nicknamed "The Big Maple," Paxton is considered the top arm in the Mariners rotation this season over previous Cy Young Award winner Felix Hernandez and Japanese phenom Hisashi Iwakuma.  The 2017 season is far from over and Paxton still has a lot to prove, but if his pitching continues to get the best of hitters, expect him to contend for the Cy Young Award and perhaps the league MVP.

2. Russell Martin, Catcher, Toronto Blue Jays
    Ontario/Quebec

Russell Martin has proved to be one of the best catchers in the league for many years.  He is considered one of the best two-way catchers in the MLB, featuring above-average defence (2007 Gold Glove winner) and his exceptional ability to swing for power and contact (2007 Silver Slugger winner).  In his 11 year career, he has been chosen to represent his team in the All-Star Game four times, the last one being in 2015.  His value as a catcher goes much deeper than his production on the field, as he is seen as the "second manager" of any team he plays for.  He has lead every team he played for to a playoff berth since 2011.


1. Joey Votto, First Baseman, Cincinnati Reds
     Ontario

Joey Votto has consistently proven to be one of the best players in the league offensively and defensively, winning the league MVP in 2010 and a Gold Glove in 2011.  He is known for his consistent power and plate discipline.  Votto was chosen to four straight All-Star Game appearances from 2010 to 2013.  Votto boasts a career .311 batting average, fourth best in active players in the MLB.  Despite his superstar status, he has never played for a lineup deep enough to compete for the World Series.  In his 10 year career all with the Reds, his team has always been an obstacle on his way to a championship.  He has only played in the postseason three times and had never passed the NL Division Series (first round).