Joe Nathan was one of the more successful closers in the American League throughout the 2000’s a role he embraced after four undistinguished years for the San Francisco Giants.

Throughout the first decade of the 2000’s, it could be argued that Jimmy Rollins was the heart of the Philadelphia Phillies…or was he the motor?

It is not widely known, but Rollins holds the Phillies’ franchise record for hits with 2,306.  Rollins did almost all of that from the leadoff position, where he batted for the Phils for over a decade.  Using his speed, he would lead the National League in Triples four times and would steal 30 or more bases ten times.  Named an All-Star three times, Rollins’ best season was actually in 2007, when he wasn’t chosen for the mid-season classic, 2007 where he won the National League MVP with a career-high 30 Home Runs.  Despite his small stature (5’ 7”), Jimmy Rollins would show decent power numbers with 231 taters, and it can not be forgotten what an asset he was defensively in the Philadelphia infield.

In 2008, Rollins would lead Philadelphia to the World Series, where the team won its first title since 1980.  He may not make the Hall of Fame, but the Philadelphia Baseball Wall of Fame should see the name of “Jimmy Rollins” etched into it one day.

Jeff Francouer was a first round pick who would secure four seasons of 160 Hits along with a Gold Glove in 2007.  Francoueur would be a good defensive player over his career and would also record 160 Home Runs.

Javier Lopez had a good run in the Majors where he was predominantly used in middle relief.  Lopez did record 14 career Saves but far more worth mentioning was that he was a member of four World Series Championship teams, one with Boston and three with the San Francisco Giants.  Lopez might have a limited chance to get onto the Hall of Fame ballot but how many Hall of Famers have four World Series Rings?