What does it mean to be overrated? How about underrated? And who in baseball falls into that category? ESPN’s Jayson Stark tackles that question with his new book The Stark Truth: The Most Overrated and Underrated Players in Baseball History.

Stark uses statistics to compare just who are the most overrated and underrated players at each position – as well as top three for each team in baseball.

For instance – the top overrated left handed starting pitcher? Sandy Koufax. Most underrated left handed starter? Babe Ruth. Think about that for a moment.

Stark will open your eyes to the battle between perception and reality when it comes to rating ball players. He uses statistics to place players not only in comparison to their era, but to other players at their position throughout history.

A blend of humorous writing meshed with a good usage of stats makes this a well balanced book – and while I don’t think it will clear the air about who was the best at their position, it should definitely add some fuel to the fire. And Mariners fans – just wait until you see what he has to say about Edgar.

What do you think about The Start Truth? Join the discussion and post your comments!