The 2000 Topps All-Star Rookie Team brought together a fresh wave of talent that would shape the MLB in the early 2000s. This group showcased a range of skills from dependable pitching to clutch hitting and remarkable defense. Let’s look back at their careers, accomplishments, and standout moments.
Bengie Molina – C – Angels
Bengie Molina, the eldest of the Molina brothers, was a defensive standout known for his strong arm and handling of pitchers. Over his 13-year career, he batted .274 with 144 home runs and 711 RBIs. He won two Gold Gloves and two World Series titles with the Angels and Giants, earning a reputation as one of the game’s top defensive catchers.
Pat Burrell – 1B/OF – Phillies
Nicknamed “Pat the Bat,” Burrell quickly became known for his power at the plate. In his 12-year career, he hit .253 with 292 home runs and 976 RBIs. A two-time World Series champion, he played a key role with the 2008 Phillies and later with the 2010 Giants. His clutch hitting and consistent power made him a fan favorite.
Adam Kennedy – 2B – Angels
Adam Kennedy was a reliable second baseman with solid contact hitting and defensive skills. Over his 14-year career, he batted .272 with 80 home runs and 571 RBIs. Known for his postseason heroics, Kennedy famously hit three home runs in Game 5 of the 2002 ALCS, helping the Angels reach and win the World Series that year.
Mike Lamb – 3B – Rangers
Mike Lamb brought versatility to the field, able to play multiple infield positions. Over his 10-year career, he hit .276 with 69 home runs and 349 RBIs. Lamb was known for his steady presence off the bench, particularly with the Astros in the mid-2000s, where he provided key depth and clutch hits in their playoff runs.
Rafael Furcal – SS – Braves
Rafael Furcal was a dynamic shortstop with speed and defensive prowess. Over his 14-year career, he batted .281 with 113 home runs, 585 RBIs, and 314 stolen bases. The 2000 NL Rookie of the Year, Furcal was known for his quick reflexes and strong arm, making him a fixture in the Braves and Dodgers lineups and a three-time All-Star.
Terrence Long – OF – Athletics
Terrence Long was a dependable outfielder with solid hitting and speed. He hit .269 with 69 home runs and 376 RBIs over his eight-year career. His best season came in 2000, when he finished second in Rookie of the Year voting. Known for his range in the outfield, Long played a key role in the Athletics’ early-2000s playoff teams.
Jay Payton – OF – Mets
Jay Payton known for his consistent bat and outfield versatility. Over his 12-year career, he hit .279 with 119 home runs and 522 RBIs. He played a key role with the 2000 Mets team that reached the World Series, adding power and speed. Payton was appreciated for his clutch hitting and solid defense.
Mark Quinn – OF – Royals
Mark Quinn had a strong rookie year with the Royals, hitting .294 with 20 home runs and 78 RBIs. Though his MLB career was brief, spanning just four seasons, Quinn’s bat showed flashes of power and consistency, leaving Royals fans with memorable home runs and clutch moments during his short time in the majors.
Kazuhiro Sasaki – P – Mariners
Kazuhiro Sasaki, known as “Daimajin,” brought a dominant presence to the Mariners’ bullpen. The 2000 AL Rookie of the Year and two-time All-Star saved 129 games over his four-year MLB career, with a 3.14 ERA and 242 strikeouts. His sharp splitter made him one of the league’s top closers during his time, leading the Mariners’ historic 2001 season.
Mark Redman – P – Twins
Mark Redman is a steady left-handed starter with 10 years in MLB. He compiled a 68-85 record with a 4.85 ERA and 712 strikeouts. Redman’s best season came in 2003, when he posted a 14-9 record with the Marlins, helping them secure a postseason berth en route to a World Series title. Known for his consistency, Redman provided depth and durability to the teams he played for.
Conclusion
The 2000 Topps All-Star Rookie Team highlighted a dynamic and diverse group of players. From Bengie Molina’s steady hand behind the plate to Rafael Furcal’s electrifying speed and Kazuhiro Sasaki’s closing dominance, these players brought excitement and skill to the game. While their careers varied in length and success, each left a mark on MLB’s history.