In a new series by Moneyline, the focus is on the top players of each Major League Baseball franchise over the past 25 years, positioning their best third basemen as the next topic of discussion. Notable decisions are clear-cut, such as choosing Chipper Jones for the Atlanta Braves, Nolan Arenado for the Colorado Rockies, and David Wright for the New York Mets. Still, many selections prompt conversation due to varying performances and contributions during the specified timeframe, which includes only statistics from the 2000 season onward.

One standout is Mark Reynolds, who played three full seasons as the Arizona Diamondbacks' starting third baseman, recording an impressive average of 35 home runs and 95 RBIs per season. His 2009 campaign was particularly remarkable, where he hit 44 home runs and garnered 102 RBIs, earning him a mention in down-ballot National League Most Valuable Player voting. However, Reynolds was also notorious for his strikeouts, leading to a staggering 223 in the same 2009 season before being traded to the Baltimore Orioles.

The Oakland Athletics faced a challenging decision between Matt Chapman and Josh Donaldson, both of whom had impressive tenure with the organization. Ultimately, Eric Chavez was selected, praised for his peak performance during a six-year period in which he won six straight AL Gold Gloves, averaged a solid 33 doubles and 29 home runs per season, and produced a WAR of 4.8. Although not an All-Star, his contribution was undeniably significant.

Chipper Jones, a first-ballot Hall of Famer with the Braves, remains an easy choice at third base. Posting an impressive line of .304/.404/.529 over 1,720 games, he recorded a significant 67 stolen bases and was a consistent performer during the 2000s, contributing to five All-Star selections and an NL batting title in 2008 at age 36.

For the Baltimore Orioles, Manny Machado excelled after debuting at age 20, becoming a premier third baseman in the league. Additionally, Rafael Devers of the Boston Red Sox made a compelling case as the best third baseman for his young age and impressive metrics, including a .279/.345/.511 offensive line over 980 games and a hefty 22.5 WAR during his tenure with the club.

Meanwhile, Kris Bryant is highlighted for his pivotal role in the Chicago Cubs' historic World Series victory in 2016, complemented by his 2016 NL MVP award, while Joe Crede represented the White Sox for his contribution during his six seasons with the team that included a Silver Slugger award in 2006 and an All-Star selection in 2008.

In selecting the Cincinnati Reds' best third baseman, Todd Frazier's significant accomplishments earned him the title over Eugenio Suárez and others. His time with the Reds included back-to-back playoff appearances and an All-Star nod, highlighted by winning the 2015 Home Run Derby.

José Ramírez of the Cleveland Guardians has emerged as one of the most complete players in Major League Baseball today, boasting impressive WAR statistics and placing consistently among the top AL MVP votes, establishing his legacy as one of the game's elite.

Nolan Arenado, who spent his formative years with the Colorado Rockies, showcased remarkable talent as a Gold Glove winner and offensive powerhouse before his trade to the St. Louis Cardinals. His numbers are indicative of a player in Hall of Fame contention.

Ryan Zimmerman became a franchise icon for the Washington Nationals, having played his entire career with the team and earning the distinction of their first true star following their move from Montreal. His notable contributions included a strong 2009 season, framing him as an all-time great for the franchise.

With numerous players such as Scott Rolen from the Philadelphia Phillies and Alex Rodriguez from the New York Yankees competing for top spots, it's evident that each franchise carries its unique tapestry of talent at third base, contributing significantly to their respective teams over the last quarter-century.