Who's the best infielder to chat with in-game? We asked them

During Spring Training, MLB.com beat writers surveyed their clubhouses, asking players for their opinions on a range of topics. Well over 100 players participated, in exchange for anonymity. In the leadup to Opening Day, MLB.com is publishing a series of stories based on the results of that survey.

Today’s topic: Who's the friendliest infielder to chat with when you're on the bases?

There's nothing wrong with a little conversation in the midst of competition. Some players like to keep to themselves during a game, but others welcome some in-game chit-chat during the grind of a Major League season.

Here are the players who are the friendliest to talk to on the basepaths, according to their big league peers.

1. Freddie Freeman, Dodgers
No matter if he's on the diamond or the golf course, Freeman on the mic is always a fun listen. And he's not shy when it comes to talking up baserunners who visit him at first base.

"I see him talking a lot to a lot of guys," a National League reliever said.

2. Francisco Lindor, Mets
With a nickname like Mr. Smile, it's not surprising that a bunch of players find Lindor very approachable.

"He's always been awesome," an AL infielder said.

Talking during a game comes so easily to Lindor, he can start a double play while in mid-sentence.

3. Jose Altuve, Astros
Altuve, a 13-year veteran with the Astros, will continue chatting with baserunners in Houston through 2029. However, we're not sure how many of them have heard him sing Taylor Swift during a game, as he attempted to do for a national TV audience in 2023.

4. Mookie Betts, Dodgers
Despite not seeing much time on the infield prior to last year, Betts has quickly developed a reputation as one of MLB's best players to talk with. Considering this fun interaction with Juan Soto from 2022, it's easy to see why. He'll get many more chances to converse with baserunners as the Dodgers' shortstop to start this season.

• Breaking down exactly what to expect from Mookie at shortstop

5 (tie). Joey Votto, Blue Jays; Ozzie Albies, Braves; Paul Goldschmidt, Cardinals; Rowdy Tellez, Pirates
Votto's personality is a big hit with fans and players alike.

"He's hysterical," said an AL outfielder.

Votto often shows his sense of humor on social media, and he had a hilarious moment with another player in this group while at first base on Opening Day 2022.

Tellez also keeps a smile on everyone's face when he's around.

"He's always got some remark to say that's funny," an AL catcher said.

Other players receiving votes: Adam Frazier, Royals; Alec Bohm, Phillies; Alex Bregman, Astros; Anthony Rizzo, Yankees; Bo Bichette, Blue Jays; Carlos Correa, Twins; Cody Bellinger, Cubs; Dansby Swanson, Cubs; Eugenio Suárez, D-backs; José Abreu, Astros; Josh Harrison, Reds; Luis García Jr., Nationals; Manny Machado, Padres; Nathaniel Lowe, Rangers; Nicky Lopez, White Sox; Nolan Arenado, Cardinals; Ryan O'Hearn, Orioles; Taylor Walls, Rays; Ty France, Mariners; Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Blue Jays; Willy Adames, Brewers; Xander Bogaerts, Padres; Yandy Díaz, Rays