| Name, team | Key statistic | Skinny |
| 1. Chase Utley, Philadelphia | 414 RBIs in past four years | A budding Hall of Famer if he can duplicate production of his past four seasons |
| 2. Dustin Pedroia, Boston | Had 54 doubles as 2008 MVP | An MVP and Gold Glove player at age 25. Gets extra points for hustle. |
| 3. Brandon Phillips, Cincinnati | 30-30 (homers- steals) in 2007 | Best second baseman defensively; needs to get on base more (.312 OBP in 2008) |
| 4. Brian Roberts, Orioles | 27 or more SB in 5 straight years | Consistency as leadoff hitter and top base-running skills make him elite |
| 5. Ian Kinsler, Texas | .319 average in 2008 | Durability and defensive issues must be resolved before he moves up list |
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