ESPN Top 100

[John1941]

I'm far from PC, and don't think the Negro Leagues were the equal of the major leagues, but I think the low rating for Negro League greats is ridiculous. Oscar Charleston 53rd? He should, at the very least, be in top 20, and there's a good argument for him being in the top 5. Josh Gibson behind Derek Jeter? Whaaaa???

And I agree -- Bryce Harper is nowhere near the top 100. Needs three to five more great seasons.

[Peter_Spaeth]

Originally Posted by John1941

I'm far from PC, and don't think the Negro Leagues were the equal of the major leagues, but I think the low rating for Negro League greats is ridiculous. Oscar Charleston 53rd? He should, at the very least, be in top 20, and there's a good argument for him being in the top 5. Josh Gibson behind Derek Jeter? Whaaaa???

And I agree -- Bryce Harper is nowhere near the top 100. Needs three to five more great seasons.

Harper and Trout probably reflect who ESPN had on the panel. Still puzzling out Pedro, obviously a very great pitcher at his peak, but the career to me just doesn't add up to him ranking over Clemens, Young, Alexander, etc.

[molenick]

Yeah, I think Harper really stands out. I recall a book years ago of the 100 best players that had George Foster in it, I guess right after he had his monster years and before it was clear he was just going to be a very good player but not a great player. In retrospect, that was not a wise choice.

[aljurgela]

Originally Posted by John1941

I'm far from PC, and don't think the Negro Leagues were the equal of the major leagues, but I think the low rating for Negro League greats is ridiculous. Oscar Charleston 53rd? He should, at the very least, be in top 20, and there's a good argument for him being in the top 5. Josh Gibson behind Derek Jeter? Whaaaa???

And I agree -- Bryce Harper is nowhere near the top 100. Needs three to five more great seasons.

slap in the face

[Peter_Spaeth]

Originally Posted by aljurgela

slap in the face

Yeah, and it's inexplicable given the recent efforts to elevate the Negro Leagues and sensibilities these days in general.