The Greatest Players in Pittsburgh Pirates History: Clemente vs. Wagner

Introduction

Among the long and storied history of the Pittsburgh Pirates, one question often arises: is there one player who stands head and shoulders above the rest? Opinions vary, but two names most commonly fly into the conversation: Roberto Clemente and Honus Wagner. Both are giants in the history of the Pirates and of baseball as a whole. This article will delve into the merits of both players to determine who truly emerges as the greatest in Pirates history.

Who is Honus Wagner?

Honus Wagner, also known as The Flying Dutchman, is often cited as the greatest player in Pirates history. Wagner was a shortstop who was as formidable a hitter as he was a defender. Playing in the early 20th century, he challenged Hall of Famer Ty Cobb for supremacy and earned a reputation as one of the first giants in the game. His career spanned from 1900 to 1917, during which he accumulated a WAR of 75.9, as per Hall of Stats, and won multiple batting titles, proving his consistency over a long career. His leadership and play may have won him the nickname A-Rod of his day, referring to the modern-day star Alex Rodriguez.

Roberto Clemente: Beyond Wagner

Roberto Clemente, on the other hand, had a career that ended only 16 years before Wagner’s. As a player in the integrated era, Clemente faced numerous challenges and often played against what was considered at the time to be more talented opponents. However, his talent and determination allowed him to excel, especially in his final years. Clemente was known for his defensive prowess, primarily in right field, where he had the best throwing arm in the league at the time. His 1966 National League MVP award and his career hit to reach 3,000 is a testament to his play.

The Modern Era and Clemente’s Legacy

When considering modern players like Willie Stargell, it is clear that Clemente’s post-World War II achievements stand out. The Hall of Stats ranks Clemente 190th while giving Wagner 284th place. This slight discrepancy underscores the fact that at the time of their careers, the game of baseball itself had different rules and challenges. Barry Bonds, though an exceptional player, excelled predominantly with the San Francisco Giants and his dominant years came in the 21st century.

The Post-World War II Perspective

With the significant changes in baseball over the decades, comparing players across different eras becomes inherently subjective. The Pirates have only four players with a career WAR of 60 or more, and Clemente, Wagner, Paul Waner, and Arky Vaughan are among them. Willie Stargell is close with a slightly lower WAR of 57.5. This list indicates the high regard in which Clemente and Wagner are held by the Pirates' record.

Conclusion: A Tug-of-War Between Giants

The question of who is the greatest in Pirates history culminates in a fascinating debate between Honus Wagner and Roberto Clemente. While Wagner’s era and impact on the game are significant, Clemente’s complete player status and his post-World War II dominance cannot be overlooked. Both players, in their own times, exemplified what it meant to excel in baseball. Whether Wagner or Clemente comes out on top is subjective, but their presence in the Pirates’ history ensures they will forever be remembered as two of the game's greatest icons.

Keywords: Pittsburgh Pirates, Honus Wagner, Roberto Clemente, Greatest Players, Baseball History