Red Sox All-21st Century Team: Boston’s best from the last 25 years

Who are the top Red Sox players since the year 2000? The Herald reviews Boston’s finest athletes over the past 25 years.

Overview

The 21st century has brought remarkable talent to the Boston Red Sox, reflecting both team success and standout individual performances. This list highlights players who have significantly impacted the franchise during this period.

Key Players

David Ortiz
Known as "Big Papi," Ortiz is a legendary figure in Red Sox history, revered for his clutch hitting and leadership in three World Series championships.
Dustin Pedroia
A gritty and consistent second baseman, Pedroia earned MVP honors and was instrumental in the Red Sox’s 2007 and 2013 titles.
Manny Ramirez
Renowned for his offensive prowess, Ramirez was a key offensive catalyst, helping secure two championships.
Clay Buchholz
A dependable pitcher during critical moments, Buchholz contributed valuable starting performances including a no-hitter.
Jonathan Papelbon
As the team’s closer for many years, Papelbon closed out numerous games, providing reliability in the late innings.

Contributions and Achievements

Players on this list showcased high levels of skill, leadership, and clutch performances that have shaped the Red Sox into a modern powerhouse. Their roles ranged from dominant pitching staffs to offensive leaders, each leaving a lasting legacy.

"These athletes define an era of Red Sox baseball marked by resilience and championship triumphs."

Author’s Summary

The top Red Sox players of the last 25 years reflect a blend of talent and determination that transformed the franchise into a dominant force in baseball’s modern era.

The Saratogian — 2025-11-30