Major League Baseball's 10 Most Indispensable Players in 2010

Part 3 of 10

No. 8 Ryan Zimmerman, Washington Nationals

The Washington Nationals appear to be a team on the rise. The club's surprising 17-14 start has gathered attention around the baseball world— and the team just may hang around in the forefront all season with the emergence of its young talent.

Third baseman Ryan Zimmerman is central to the team's fortunes. The 2009 Gold Glove winner anchors the hot corner and the middle of the Nat's lineup.

Despite being limited with a strained hamstring, Zimmerman has banged out 5 HR's, driven in 15 runs and hit .325 in just 23 games. This comes on the heels of a 33 HR, 106 RBI, .292 season a year ago.

Importantly, Zimmerman's maturity and lead-by-example style provides a tremendous role model for the young players around him. He competes hard, exhibits class in all he does, and exudes a humble demeanor despite an ever expanding resume.

Hottest of the Hot Corner: Ranking MLB's Top 16 Third Basemen—No. 4

Part 13 of 16

No. 4 Ryan Zimmerman, Washington Nationals

It had become clear to the Washington Nationals that Ryan Zimmerman was a keeper, so after three years they elected to sign him to a 5-year, $45 million extension before the 2009 season. He rewarded them with his best season yet and looks to be one of the key players they plan to build around.

Zimmerman recorded career bests in HR's (33) and batting average (.292) while also leading the team with 106 RBI's. For his efforts, he earned an NL Silver Slugger trophy.

His exploits went beyond the batter's box, though, as he also impressed in the field— so much so that he was given a Gold Glove to go along with his silver trophy.

The 25-year old third baseman has battled a hamstring injury in the early going, but is currently hitting .370 with 4 HR's in 59 plate appearances. With the Nationals improved club around him, Zimmerman has even more upside potential.