These Are the Tallest MLB Players in Baseball History
Being tall has its perks in baseball, especially for pitchers who can hurl the ball from a higher angle or sluggers who pack extra power in their swings. Over the years, some of the game’s tallest players have used their height to dominate on the field and leave fans in awe of their presence and performance. Continue reading to explore some of the tallest MLB players in history and how they’ve left their mark on the game.
Jon Rauch – 6’11”
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At 6’11”, Jon Rauch stands alone as one of the most striking figures in MLB history. His imposing frame wasn’t just for show either; Rauch spent over a decade as a reliable reliever, occasionally starting games. In 2004, he made history as the tallest player ever to hit a home run. Though his hitting career was brief, that one swing was definitely a highlight.
Sean Hjelle – 6’11”
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Sean Hjelle joined the exclusive 6’11” club when he debuted for the San Francisco Giants in 2022. At first glance, Hjelle’s size can make anyone pause, but his gentle demeanor contrasts sharply with his presence on the mound. While his journey in the big leagues is just beginning, there’s a quiet optimism surrounding his potential to make an impact.
Randy Johnson – 6’10”
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Few players could intimidate batters quite like Randy Johnson. Known as “The Big Unit,” Johnson’s 6’10” frame, combined with his blistering fastball and devastating slider, made him one of the greatest pitchers in history. His accolades speak for themselves: five Cy Young Awards, a World Series MVP, and over 300 career wins.
Eric Hillman – 6’10”
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Eric Hillman’s MLB career may have been shorter than most, but his height alone made him stand out. Debuting in 1992 for the New York Mets, Hillman showed flashes of potential but struggled to find consistent success. After a few seasons, he transitioned to playing in Japan, where he extended his career and made the most of his unique build.
Chris Young – 6’10”
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Chris Young, another towering 6’10” pitcher, brought a cerebral approach to the mound, thanks in part to his Princeton education. He carved out a solid career highlighted by an All-Star appearance and a World Series title with the Kansas City Royals in 2015. Young’s height gave him a natural edge, but his work ethic made him a champion.
Aaron Slegers – 6’10”
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Aaron Slegers used his towering stature to earn a spot in the majors by pitching for teams like the Twins and Rays. While injuries cut his career short, Slegers’ height was always a topic of fascination among fans. He retired in 2023, leaving behind memories of a pitcher who gave it his all.
Mark Hendrickson – 6’9”
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Mark Hendrickson is a rare athlete who played professionally in both the NBA and MLB. His basketball skills translated well to the diamond, where he became a reliable left-handed pitcher. Hendrickson’s MLB career spanned over a decade, and his decision to switch sports was a winning choice.
Bailey Ober – 6’9”
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Currently a member of the Minnesota Twins, Bailey Ober is a prime example of how height can be an asset for a pitcher. His long arms create a downhill trajectory that makes his pitches difficult to hit. Ober’s steady performances suggest he’s just getting started in what could be a long and fruitful career.
Tony Clark – 6’8”
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Tony Clark was a towering figure at first base and made his MLB debut in 1995. Unlike many others on this list, Clark wasn’t a pitcher. Instead, he used his size to his advantage at the plate by finishing his career with over 250 home runs. Today, Clark serves as the head of the MLB Players Association.
Dellin Betances – 6’8”
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Dellin Betances owned the mound during his prime years with the New York Yankees. His combination of height and velocity made him one of the most feared relievers in baseball from 2014 to 2017. Injuries eventually caught up with Betances, but his towering presence remains unforgettable to Yankees fans.
Nate Freiman – 6’8”
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Nate Freiman had a powerful swing to match. Though his time in the majors was brief, Freiman left a mark with his rookie season for the Oakland A’s. His height gave him an unmistakable presence at first base, and his contributions helped his team during their playoff runs.
Chris Martin – 6’8”
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Chris Martin has quietly built a solid career as a journeyman reliever by pitching for teams like the Boston Red Sox. While his height gives him an advantage, Martin is best known for his control and consistency. As he approaches free agency, fans and teams alike recognize the value he brings to the bullpen.
Tayron Guerrero – 6’8”
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Tayron Guerrero’s 6’8” frame has always turned heads, even if his MLB career has been sporadic. The Colombian pitcher showed his blazing fastball during stints with the Padres and Marlins. Guerrero now plays for the Chiba Lotte Marines, a team in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), which is Japan’s top professional baseball league.
Tyler Glasnow – 6’8”
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Tyler Glasnow is one of the most exciting pitchers in today’s baseball. After struggling early in his career with the Pirates, Glasnow found his stride with the Rays. Now with the Dodgers, Glasnow’s towering presence and electric stuff make him a key player to watch.
Luke Little – 6’8”
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Luke Little is the youngest player on this list, recently debuting for the Chicago Cubs. With a left-handed arm and plenty of potential, Little is just beginning to show what he’s capable of. His height gives him a natural advantage, and Cubs fans are eager to see how he develops in the years to come.