Who is the most followed MLB player on Instagram? Listing the top 5 stars with the biggest fanbase on social media

Compared to several other sports, the most followed MLB player on Instagram can barely scratch the surface of someone such as Cristiano Ronaldo or LeBron James. However, these superstars have reached an online following that most people could only dream of.

Instagram has become a part of everyday life, and fans have been given a closer look at the personal lives of some of their favorite athletes and celebrities. Thanks to the social media platform, we have been able to share the highs and lows of our favorite MLB players.

Here is a closer look at the five most followed MLB players.

5. Jose Altuve, Instagram followers: 1.4 million

While he may be physically small, his influence online is among the most in the MLB. The second baseman remains one of the most popular players in the MLB, despite his connection to the 2017 sign-stealing scandal. With 1.4 million Instagram followers, Altuve ranks fifth among MLB players.

"Two pitches. Two home runs for José Altuve." - Talkin' Baseball

Jose Altuve has been one of the best players of his generation, helping lead the Houston Astros to two World Series titles, as well as winning the 2017 AL MVP Award.

4. Aaron Judge, Instagram followers: 1.6 million

The complete opposite of Altuve, Aaron Judge is not only one of the tallest MLB players but also one of the most followed MLB players. At 1.6 million, the New York Yankees superstar sits fourth among all active MLB players.

"Aaron Judge talked about how free agency was stressful, but in the end, returning to the Yankees was a "no-brainer"" - ESPN

The physically imposing outfielder enjoyed a historic season for the New York Yankees last year. Judge set a new record for the most home runs in a single season for both the Yankees and the American League by clubbing 62 total homers.

3. Bryce Harper, Instagram followers: 1.7 million

One of the most polarizing superstars in the MLB, fans either love or hate Bryce Harper, however, judging by his Instagram followers, there is a lot more love. The former MVP ranks as the third most followed MLB player with 1.7 million.

"Today marks four years since Bryce Harper agreed to a 13 year, $330 million deal with the Phillies. Best signing ever?" - Shibe Vintage Sports

After bursting onto the scene as a teenage phenom, Harper has more than lived up to the hype by winning two National League MVP Awards. With no signs of slowing down, that number may continue to grow by the time he hangs up his cleats.

2. Mike Trout, Instagram followers: 2 million

Without a doubt, Mike Trout has been the greatest player of his generation. The only question that will surround Trout upon retirement is whether he is the greatest player to ever lace them up. A three-time MVP and ten-time All-Star, Trout has won every individual accolade a player can win, with only team success continuing to elude the phenom.

"Mike Trout facing the #Angels for the first time in his career and Tyler Anderson comes inside" - Bob Nightengale

His success has been rewarded with an enormous following online. For years, Mike Trout was the most followed MLB player on Instagram, however, he has since been surpassed. The Los Angeles Angels star currently sits at 2 million followers on the social media platform.

1. Shohei Ohtani, Instagram followers: 2.6 million

The beloved two-way Japanese superstar has not only become arguably the best player in baseball but also the most popular. Shohei Ohtani took the mantle as the most followed MLB player on Instagram from his teammate Mike Trout. I guess revolutionizing a sport doesn't hurt your standing among fans.

"Crowd pleaser: Shohei Ohtani dazzles on both sides of the ball in Japan's #WorldBaseballClassic opener." - MLB