The Wizard of Oz would never be selected for his bat. Though his .262 career average is, well, average, he is being selected for two reasons. First and foremost is his glove. He won 13 Gold Glove awards over his 19-year career, and dazzled fans not just with his backflip intro, which would surely make its way onto the world stage, but by the way he covered the middle of the field.

There is no such thing as a seeing-eye single hit anywhere in Smith’s vicinity. He had cat-like reflexes and an accurate arm. He would also be selected for this 1996 team because this was the end of his career, and the MLB would not hesitate to honor him. Not only that, but every team needs a captain, and there may be no better player on this squad to wear the C on his jersey.

Cal Ripken, Jr

If Smith is lightning, then Cal Ripken would be the thunder of the middle infield. He hit 431 career home runs and won the 1993 Home Run Derby. By this point in his career, he sported a .276 batting average and a .798 OPS. He is dangerous whether he is hitting second in the lineup or ninth. He brings no ego with him and would not have a problem backing up Smith or Caminiti.

Just because Ripken was great at the plate does not mean he was a slouch in the field. He won the Gold Glove for shortstop in 1991 and 1992. He was also the American League MVP in 1983 and 1991. In 1995, Ripken broke Lou Gehrig’s record for the most consecutive games played (2,130). Like Smith, he is a National Treasure and an American Icon. There was no way to make this team without him.