Fantasy baseball enthusiasts are always on the lookout for the next big thing, the player who will bring them glory in their league. With each new season comes a fresh opportunity to dominate the competition, and having the right rankings can make all the difference. As we gear up for the 2023 fantasy baseball season, let’s take a look at some expert rankings to help you draft like a pro.
1. Ronald Acuña Jr. (OF, Atlanta Braves) – Acuña has been a fantasy superstar for several seasons now, and there’s no reason to believe he won’t continue that trend in 2023. He combines immense power, speed, and a high batting average, making him an ideal candidate for any fantasy team’s first-round pick.
2. Juan Soto (OF, Washington Nationals) – Soto is just 23 years old but has already established himself as one of the best hitters in the game. He consistently puts up high on-base percentages, boasts both power and a great eye at the plate, and has the potential for 40+ home runs in a season.
3. Fernando Tatis Jr. (SS, San Diego Padres) – Tatis Jr. is a true five-tool player who can contribute across all categories. He has an electrifying blend of power and speed, and his ability to steal bases while hitting for power makes him an incredible asset. Tatis Jr. missed some time due to injury in 2022, but there’s no doubt he’ll bounce back strong in 2023.
4. Shohei Ohtani (SP/UTIL, Los Angeles Angels) – Ohtani is a fantasy unicorn, capable of dominating both as a pitcher and as a hitter. In 2022, he became the first player in history to hit the 30/30 mark while also boasting a sub-3.00 ERA on the mound. Ohtani’s unique dual-threat abilities make him a top-tier fantasy option in any format.
5. Jacob deGrom (SP, New York Mets) – When healthy, deGrom is without question the best pitcher in baseball. His combination of elite strikeouts, a low ERA, and a microscopic WHIP make him a must-have for any fantasy team. The only concern may be his durability, as he has struggled with injuries in the past, but the potential reward far outweighs the risk.
6. Mookie Betts (OF, Los Angeles Dodgers) – Betts consistently performs across all categories and is a perennial MVP candidate. He provides a great blend of power, speed, and the ability to hit for average, making him a safe and reliable early-round choice.
7. Gerrit Cole (SP, New York Yankees) – Cole has firmly established himself as one of the most dominant pitchers in the game. He consistently racks up strikeouts and provides solid ratios, making him a reliable anchor for any fantasy pitching staff.
8. Trea Turner (SS/2B, Los Angeles Dodgers) – Turner’s combination of speed and power makes him an excellent fantasy asset. The move to the Dodgers only enhances his value, as he will be surrounded by talented hitters who can drive him in and provide ample opportunities on the basepaths.
9. Cody Bellinger (1B/OF, Los Angeles Dodgers) – After a somewhat disappointing 2022 season, Bellinger is poised for a bounce-back in 2023. He has shown the ability to be a 30+ home run hitter with a solid batting average, and his eligibility at multiple positions adds to his value.
10. Freddie Freeman (1B, Atlanta Braves) – Freeman consistently produces high batting averages, solid power numbers, and contributes to the run and RBI categories. He’s a safe option in the early rounds and can anchor a fantasy team’s first base slot.
Of course, these rankings are just a starting point, and fantasy baseball drafts can be unpredictable. It’s important to do your research, stay updated on player news and spring training performances, and be flexible during the draft. Remember that knowing your league’s settings and understanding each player’s value in your specific format is key to building a championship-caliber team.
With these expert rankings in hand, you’ll be well-equipped to make informed decisions during your fantasy baseball draft in 2023. So study up, trust your instincts, and draft like a pro for a shot at fantasy baseball glory.