MLB in 2023: Ranking All 30 Aces

30. Roansy Contreras — Pittsburgh Pirates

Here you go, kid. The 23-year-old out of the D.R. has been given the reins to the Pittsburgh staff. At only 6-feet tall and 175 pounds, the diminutive Contreras can still rev up a fastball close to 100 mph. In terms of percentile rankings, Contreras ranks in the 80-85th percentile in four categories (Chase Rate, Fastball Velocity, Fastball Spin, Curve Spin). While Contreras might not turn into the next Pedro Martinez, the Pirates do have a talented young arm to build around. For that reason, fans should be excited.

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29. Josiah Gray — Washington Nationals

One of the prized pieces in the Max Scherzer/Trea Turner trade, the Nationals hope former Dodger prospect Josiah Gray can eventually become a stalwart in Washington’s rotation. Gray hasn’t posted the best overall numbers over his short career (5.17 ERA), but this is a guy who has a ton of pedigree and upside. We’re just a few years removed from Gray ranking higher in the Dodgers farm system than National League All-Star Tony Gonsolin. Gray already boasts a plus slider and curveball. If his fastball ever develops into an elite pitch, Gray will have no trouble producing at a high level.

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