Arizona Diamondbacks (2001)
Randy Johnson – Curt Schilling – Brian Anderson – Miguel Batista – Robert Ellis
Four years into their major-league existence, the Diamondbacks won a World Series. Arizona’s pitching staff obviously had plenty to do with that success. Notably a starting rotation that featured two 20-game winners in Curt Schilling (22 wins) and Randy Johnson (21), who also combined for nine complete games. The starting staff, which posted a 3.88 ERA and led the majors with 933 strikeouts, also featured three other arms – Brian Anderson, Miguel Batista and Robert Ellis – that made at least 18 starts. In the postseason, Arizona’s starters posted a stellar 1.94 ERA and held opponents to a .175 batting average. Meanwhile, Johnson and Schilling went a combined 9-1 during the playoffs.
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Atlanta Braves (1998)
John Smoltz – Tom Glavine – Greg Maddux – Denny Neagles – Kevin Milwood
OK, the 1993 and 1997 Atlanta staffs certainly have legitimate cases to be in this spot. In fact, the 1997 group, highlighted by John Smoltz, Tom Glavine, Greg Maddux and Denny Neagle, is quite comparable to our pick from ’98 – in terms of makeup and statistics. That foursome was back in ’98, when Glavine won 20, Maddux totaled 18 victories while Smoltz recorded 17 and Neagle 16. Add 17 wins from Kevin Millwood in his first full major-league season, and the Atlanta starters set a franchise record with 90 victories, while posting a 3.06 ERA. However, just like the 1997 club, these Braves lost in the National League Championship Series.
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Baltimore Orioles (1971)
Dave McNally – Jim Palmer – Pat Dobson – Mike Cuellar
For the first time since the 1920 Chicago White Sox, a pitching staff registered four pitchers with at least 20 wins. The ’71 Orioles are still the most recent staff to win it all. Dave McNally went 21-5 with a 2.89 ERA, followed by Jim Palmer (20-9, 2.68 ERA), Pat Dobson (20-8, 2.90 ERA) and Mike Cuellar (20-9, 3.08 ERA). The Orioles’ starting staff owned a 2.91 ERA and helped the club win 101 games. However, they posted a 3.10 ERA and walked 22 batters while losing the World Series to Pittsburgh in seven games.
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Boston Red Sox (1912)
Joe Wood – Buck O’Brien – Hugh Bedient – Ray Collins – Charley Hall
Like others on this list, we’ll dig deep in the annals of some team history to highlight the best of the best. Yes, some of the 2000s and 2010s staffs are special. And, Pedro Martinez might be the best pitcher in the history of the storied franchise. The 1912 group, though, is tied for second in franchise history with 88 wins. Smokey Joe Wood went 34-5 with a 1.91 ERA in 43 appearances – 38 starts. In addition, Buck O’Brien and Hugh Bedient won 20 games, while Ray Collins and Charley Hall each posted double-digit victories. The Red Sox beat the New York Giants in seven games to win the World Series.
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Chicago Cubs (1907)
Orval Overall – Mordecai Brown – Carl Lundgren – Jack Pfiester – Ed Reulbach
Again, we’re going way back when talking about the best Cubs pitching staff. Though, that historic 2016 World Series champion group had a starting staff that posted an impressive 2.90 ERA. But, when we turn the clock back to 1907, when the Cubs won their first World Series, it was truly all about the pitching. Eight players threw a pitch for Chicago that season, and each started at least one game. The staff ERA was 1.73 ERA, while Orval Overall led the way with 30 starts, and sported 23 wins. Meanwhile, Mordecai “Three Finger” Brown had 20 victories. The 93 victories by Cubs starters that season are tied for third-most in team history.
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Chicago White Sox (1959)
Early Wynn – Bob Shaw – Billy Pierce – Dick Donovan – Barry Latman
There certainly have been some great pitchers to have worn the White Sox uniform. Yet, when we talk about the American League-pennant winning ’59 Sox, the pitching staff was led by one of the very best the game has ever produced. Hall of Famer Early Wynn won the Cy Young Award that season for going 22-10 with a 3.17 ERA and 179 strikeouts over 37 starts. He also posted 14 complete games. Meanwhile, teammate and unheralded right-hander Bob Shaw, who won 18 games total, went 15-6 with a 2.93 ERA in 26 starts while recording eight complete games.
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Cincinnati Reds (1923)
Dolf Luque – Eppa Rixey – Pete Donohue – Rube Benton
Yes, we’re going back a full century to highlight the best starting rotation in the history of this grand franchise. OK, these Reds did not get to play for a World Series title even after registering 91 wins (they finished second in the NL to the New York Giants). Pitching proved to be the backbone of this team’s success. Dolf Luque, Eppa Rixey and Pete Donohue combined to start 110 games that season, and also generated 68 wins on the mound. Even more impressive, though perhaps not a surprise for the time period, that trio plus No. 4 starter Rube Benton totaled 85 complete games.
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Cleveland Guardians (1954)
Early Wynn – Bob Lemon – Mark Garcia – Art Houtteman – Bob Feller
OK, Cleveland was swept by the New York Giants to conclude the 1954 season, but it won a franchise-record 111 games. On the mound, that team featured two 23-game winners in the aforementioned Early Wynn and Bob Lemon — who also combined for 41 complete games. Meanwhile, teammate Mark Garcia won 19 games and Art Houtteman was a 15-game winner. Though, both were often overshadowed by the two Hall of Famers. As a starting staff, Cleveland posted a 2.85 ERA – which topped MLB that season.
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Colorado Rockies (2009)
Ubaldo Jimenez – Jason Marquis – Jorge De La Rosa – Jason Hammell – Aaron Cook
Of course, throwing amid the thin air in Denver, pitchers sure face a monster challenge while taking the mound for the Rockies. That said, this 2009 group set franchise records for starting ERA (4.10), wins (69) and winning percentage (.580). Jorge De La Rosa led the staff with a 16-9 record. Meanwhile, Ubaldo Jimenez and Jason Marquis each won 15 games, with the latter posting an impressive 3.47 ERA for somebody pitching in Colorado. The Rockies reached the postseason in 2009 after firing manager Clint Hurdle.
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Detroit Tigers (2013)
Justin Verlander – Max Scherzer – Doug Fister – Anibal Sanchez – Rick Porcello
Though the Tigers weren’t able to return to the World Series for a second-straight season in ’13, they did make another ALCS appearance. Miguel Cabrera was one of the best hitters in the game, and Max Scherzer won his first of three Cy Young Awards while going 21-3 with a 2.90 ERA and 240 strikeouts. Scherzer was the Majors’ only 20-game winner that season, but teammates Anibal Sanchez and Doug Fister each won 14 games. Meanwhile, Justin Verlander and Rick Porcello each posted 13 victories. As a starting staff, the Tigers led the AL in ERA (3.44), and the Majors with 981 strikeouts.
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Houston Astros (2022)
Justin Verlander – Framber Valdez – Luis Garcia – Jose Urquidy – Cristian Javier
The Astros have delivered some stellar starting groups over the decades. Notably in 1986 and 2019. However, we don’t need to go back too far to showcase who we believe is the best of the lot in Astros’ history. In ’22, Houston’s starting staff led the AL with a 2.95 ERA, and franchise-record .213 opponent’s batting average. Meanwhile, the Astros’ 950 innings, 949 strikeouts and 84 wins from their starters led Major League Baseball. The aforementioned Justin Verlander went 18-4 with a ridiculous 1.75 ERA to win his third Cy Young Award. But, Framber Valdez (17-6, 2.82 ERA), Luis Garcia (15-8, 3.72 ERA), Jose Urquidy (13-8, 3.94 ERA) and Cristian Javier (11-9, 2.54 ERA) were, obviously, also big reasons why the Astros won their second World Series in six years.
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Kansas City Royals (1985)
Bret Saberhagen – Charlie Leibrandt – Danny Jackson – Bud Black – Mark Gubicza
En route to helping Kansas City win the 1985 World Series, its starters ranked second in the American League with a 3.32 ERA and 1,077 innings pitched. All five starters won at least 10 games, and all but Mark Gubicza recorded a complete game that season. Leading the way was 1985 AL Cy Young Award winner Bret Saberhagen, who went 20-6 with a 2.87 ERA and 10 complete games. Charlie Leibrandt also shined while going 17-9 with a 2.69 ERA. In his breakout season, left-hander Danny Jackson won 14 games and had a 3.42 ERA in making a career-high 32 starts for the Royals.
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Los Angeles Angels (1972)
Nolan Ryan – Clyde Wright – Rudy May – Andy Messersmith – Rickey Clark
Back when they were known as the California Angels, and Nolan Ryan was their big arm. In 1972, the Angels went 75-80 as a team. However, their starting staff had a strong 3.00 ERA, and its .217 opponents’ batting average remains the best in franchise history. Back to Ryan, who went 19-16 with a solid 2.28 ERA and 30 complete games with 329 strikeouts. A rather garden variety season for the legendary, durable hurler. Meanwhile, Clyde Wright also enjoyed a strong campaign for the Angels, going 18-11 with a 2.98 ERA spanning 35 starts.
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Los Angeles Dodgers (1966)
Sandy Koufax – Don Drysdale – Don Sutton – Claude Osteen
Some of the recent Dodgers’ rotations, led by future Hall-of-Famer Clayton Kershaw, have been downright filthy. However, this ’66 staff has long been considered one of the greatest of all-time. The rotation featured three Hall of Famers, led by the legendary Sandy Koufax who put together one of the greatest individual seasons ever by going 27-9 with a 1.73 ERA, 317 strikeouts and 27 complete games over 41 starts. The other two, Don Drysdale and Don Sutton (2.99 ERA and 209 strikeouts), combined for 25 wins. Meanwhile, Claude Osteen won 17 games and posted a 2.85 ERA. Still, the Dodgers fell short in their quest to repeat as World Series champions.
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Miami Marlins (2003)
Carl Pavano – Brad Penny – Mark Redman – Dontrelle Willis – Josh Beckett
The 2003 Florida Marlins made a rather improbable run to achieving the franchise’s second World Series crown. The Marlins won 91 games that season, and their starters had a 3.91 ERA during the regular season. In the final 29 games, when the Marlins went 21-8, opponents hit just .231 against the starting staff. Brad Penny, Mark Redman and Dontrelle Willis each won 14 games. Meanwhile, Josh Beckett was just 9-8, but had a 3.04 ERA during the regular season. During the postseason, though, Pavano was 2-0 with a 1.40 ERA, and Beckett had a 2.11 ERA and struck out 47 through 42 2/3 innings.
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Milwaukee Brewers (2021)
Corbin Burnes – Brandon Woodruff – Freddy Peralta – Adrian Houser – Eric Lauer – Brett Anderson
Since 2018, the Brewers have boasted some of the best starting pitching in the game. From 2018-22, Milwaukee had a 3.82 ERA – ranking among the top five in the Majors over that span. In 2021, the Brewers’ starting arms were truly at their best. That rotation posted a 3.13 ERA, which is lowest in club history. It set franchise records for lowest opponents’ batting average (.213) and strikeouts (906). Corbin Burnes went 11-5 with a 2.43 ERA and 234 strikeouts to win the NL Cy Young Award. Meanwhile, Freddy Peralta (10-5, 2.81 ERA) and Adrian Houser (10-6, 3.22 ERA) enjoyed strong campaigns. Brandon Woodruff, who began the year as the team’s ace, went 9-10 over 30 starts, but had an excellent 2.56 ERA with 211 strikeouts.
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Minnesota Twins (1991)
Scott Erickson – Jack Morris – Kevin Tapani – Allan Anderson – David West – Mark Guthrie
When we talk about dependability among a starting pitching staff, the ’91 Twins were highly reliable. Minnesota’s Scott Erickson (20-8, 3.18 ERA), Jack Morris (18-12, 3.43 ERA) and Kevin Tapani (16-9, 2.99 ERA) combined to start 101 games in 1991. Morris recorded 10 complete games, while Tapani and Erickson totaled nine between the two. Each also threw more than 200 innings, with Morris and Tapani topping 240. During the Twins’ postseason run to a World Series title, Morris went 4-0 with a 2.23 ERA in five starts. He capped it off with 10 historic innings of work in Minnesota’s 1-0 victory over Atlanta in Game 7.
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New York Mets (1988)
Dwight Gooden – Ron Darling – David Cone – Bob Ojeda – Sid Fernandez
Two years removed from their most recent World Series title, the Mets were still among baseball’s best. In 1988, only the eventual World Series-champion Los Angeles Dodgers were better in the NL. In terms of starting pitching, New York’s ’88 squad led the Majors in ERA (2.97), opponents’ batting average (.232), strikeouts (863) and wins (76). David Cone was an amazing 20-3 with a 2.22 ERA, while Dwight Gooden and Ron Darling combined to go 27-18. Even Bobby Ojeda posted a 2.88 ERA despite going 10-13 in 29 starts.
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New York Yankees (1939)
Red Ruffing – Lefty Gomez – Bump Hadley – Atley Donald – Monte Perason
It’s not easy picking just one starting rotation for the iconic Yankees organization. But, we think this ’39 starting staff is certainly worthy of the honor. To this day, no starting rotation/staff in the annals of the organization has earned more winning decisions than the 94 victories from the 1939 group. The star of that rotation was Hall of Fame right-hander Red Ruffing, who went 21-7 with a 2.93 ERA over 233 1/3 innings. Plus, five other pitchers, who started at least 11 games, posted 10 or more victories. In his first full season, Atley Donald went 13-3 with a 3.71 ERA to help the Yankees win a fourth-straight World Series.
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Oakland Athletics (1972)
Catfish Hunter – Ken Holtzman – Blue Moon Odom – Vida Blue – Dave Hamilton
Since the A’s moved west from Philadelphia in 1968, there have been some exceptional starting rotations to grace the East Bay. However, in 1972, the A’s starting hurlers seemed downright dominant while winning the first of three-straight World Series. Oakland’s starting staff in ’72 posted a 2.62 ERA – the best since relocating to Oakland. Opponents hit just .228 against those starters, a group led by the legendary Jim “Catfish” Hunter, who went 21-7 with a 2.04 ERA. Both “Catfish” and teammate Kenny Holtzman (19-11, 2.51 ERA) recorded 16 complete games. Blue Moon Odom went 15-6 with a 2.50 ERA. And, the great Vida Blue owned a 2.80 ERA, despite his 6-10 record.
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Philadelphia Phillies (2011)
Roy Halladay – Cliff Lee – Cole Hamels – Roy Oswalt – Vance Worley
In the modern era of Phillies baseball, there has not been a better starting rotation than the group from 2011. Those Philadelphia starters posted an MLB-best 2.86 ERA, and also led the Majors in innings (1064 2/3), complete games (18) and wins (76), while helping the club win 102 games. The late Roy Halladay (19-6, 2.35 ERA, 220 strikeouts), Cliff Lee (17-8, 2.40 ERA, 238 Ks) and Cole Hamels (14-9, 2.79 ERA, 194 Ks) each finished among the top five in the Cy Young Award voting in the National League. Unfortunately for the Phillies, they could not get by St. Louis in the NLDS.
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Pittsburgh Pirates (1902)
Jack Chesbro – Jesse Tannehill – Deacon Phillippe – Ed Doheny – Sam Leever
Sure, 1902 was a long time ago. But, when it comes to the greatest starting staffs in the history of Pirates baseball, the ’02 group still seems to stand out among everyone else. Their 99 winning decisions from starting pitchers that season are still the most in club history, and that unit’s 2.34 ERA remains the best from any group of Pittsburgh starters. When talking about the best five-man rotations of all-time, Jack Chesbro (28-6, 2.17 ERA, 31 complete games), Jesse Tannehill (20-6, 1.95 ERA, 23 complete games), Deacon Phillippe (20-9, 2.05 ERA, 29 complete games), Ed Doheny (16-4, 2.53 ERA, 19 complete games) and Sam Leever (16-7, 2.39 ERA, 23 complete games) are tough to beat from top-to-bottom – regardless of the era. Also interesting, only four other players pitched for Pittsburgh during that 103-win season.
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San Diego Padres (1998)
Kevin Brown – Andy Ashby – Joey Hamilton – Sterling Hitchcock – Mark Langston
Sure, the ’98 Padres were outclassed by the New York Yankees in that year’s World Series. But, this was still a very good 98-win team with an exceptional pitching staff. In terms of San Diego’s starting rotation 25 years ago, it ranked third in the Majors with a 3.70 ERA, fourth in strikeouts (828) and sixth in innings pitched (1,033 2/3). Kevin Brown proved to be the stud of the rotation, going 18-7 with a 2.38 ERA, 257 strikeouts and 257 IP. Meanwhile, Andy Ashby was 17-9 with a 3.34 ERA. Also, Joey Hamilton won 13 games and was the third Padres pitcher that season to throw at least 217 innings.
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San Francisco Giants (1954)
Johnny Antonelli – Ruben Gomez – Sal Maglie – Jim Hearn – Don Liddle
We’re going back to when the Giants were based in New York. Willie Mays was the undisputed star of the 1954 World Series championship squad, but they could also throw the ball pretty well. Johnny Antonelli went 21-7 with a 2.30 ERA over 258 2/3 innings. Ruben Gomez was 17-9 with a 2.88 ERA while throwing roughly 222 innings, and both starters combined for 28 complete games. As a starting staff, the Giants had a 3.16 ERA and held opponents to a .245 batting average while throwing nearly 970 innings that season.
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Seattle Mariners (2001)
Freddy Garcia – Aaron Sele – Jamie Moyer – Paul Abbott – John Halama
The greatest season in Mariners’ history is also arguably the best regular season by any MLB team. The Mariners’ 116 wins from that season are tied for the most in the annals of the game. Yes, Ichiro Suzuki was baseball’s darling at the time, but Seattle had a starting staff that ranked third in the Majors with a 3.77 ERA. However, when looking back at that rotation, it was not loaded with marquee names. Veteran Jamie Moyer was a stellar 20-6 with a 3.43 ERA, and third-year right-hander Freddy Garcia went 18-6 with a 3.05 ERA. Meanwhile, Paul Abbott won a career-high 17 games and Aaron Sele went 15-5 with a 3.60 ERA.
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St. Louis Cardinals (1968)
Bob Gibson – Nelson Briles – Ray Washburn – Steve Carlton – Larry Jaster
The quest to repeat as World Series champions fell short for the ’68 Cardinals. However, when celebrating great starting rotations, this group is among the best ever. At the heart of the staff was the legendary Bob Gibson, who went 22-9 with an amazing 1.12 ERA, 268 strikeouts, 28 complete games and nearly 305 innings pitch en route to winning his first Cy Young Award. Not to be overlooked, though, Nelson Briles won 19 games with a 2.81 ERA and Ray Washburn posted 14 victories with 2.26 ERA. Finally, there was a budding star in Steve Carlton, who went 13-11 with a 2.99 ERA and 10 complete games. As a group, the Cardinals’ rotation had a 2.49 ERA while opponents batted .237 against them.
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Tampa Bay Rays (2010)
David Price – Matt Garza – James Shields – Wade Davis – Jeff Niemann
Admittingly, it was a tight race between the Rays’ 2010 and ’11 starting staffs for this spot. Both teams reached the playoffs, but we’ll go with the 2010 group. The second team in Rays’ history to win the AL East, these Tampa starters own the franchise record with 73 winning decisions. They’re also second with 999 2/3 innings pitched, and had a 3.99 ERA. David Price was the star of the staff, going 19-6 with a 2.72 ERA in 208 2/3 IP. Not far behind, Matt Garza posted 15 victories, with James Shields (13 wins), then-starter Wade Davis (12) and Jeff Niemann (12) also earning double-digit wins on the mound.
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Texas Rangers (2011)
CJ Wilson – Colby Lewis – Derek Holland – Matt Harrison – Alexi Ogando
Before Texas’ World Series triumph in 2023, the glory days of modern Texas Rangers baseball belonged to the early 2010s. For the first time in franchise history, which began in Washington, the Rangers made the postseason in three consecutive years — 2011-13 — and reached the World Series in ’11 and ’12. In ’11, Rangers starters led the AL with 74 wins, and a solid 3.65 ERA with 10 complete games. C.J. Wilson (2.94 ERA) and Derek Holland shared the team lead with 16 winning decisions, while Colby Lewis and Matt Harrison (3.39 ERA) posted 13 apiece. Alexi Ogando went 13-8 with a solid 3.51 ERA.
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Toronto Blue Jays (1985)
Dave Stieb – Doyle Alexander – Jimmy Key – Jim Clancy – Luis Leal
In 1985, the Blue Jays won their first AL East title in franchise history. Toronto, which won 89 games that season, then pushed Kansas City to seven games in the ALCS. Along the way, the Jays were guided by a starting rotation that posted an AL-best 3.32 ERA. The seemingly ageless Doyle Alexander went 17-10 with a 3.45 ERA, while budding star Jimmy Key was 14-6 with a sparkling 3.00 ERA. Dave Stieb was Toronto’s stud arm at the time, and grinded his way to a 14-13 record with a rotation-best 2.48 ERA.
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Washington Nationals (2019)
Max Scherzer – Stephen Strasburg – Patrick Corbin – Anibal Sanchez – Erick Fedde
This was the best iteration of the Scherzer-Strasburg led Nationals rotation — one that led Washington to its first World Series title in franchise history. The starring trio of Scherzer, Strasburg and Patrick Corbin combined for 732 strikeouts. Though Washington boasted a stacked offensive group, it was its stars on the mound which helped fuel the postseason run. Scherzer and Strasburg made a combined four starts in the World Series — all four of Washington’s wins. Corbin earned the victory in Game 7 after pitching three innings of relief.
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MLB in 2023: The 25 Best Players
25. J.T. Realmuto
2022 Stats: 22 HR, 84 RBI, 139 H, 21 SB, .276/.342/.478
There is no better catcher in baseball than J.T. Realmuto. The three-time All-Star is coming off a Gold Glove year as Philadelphia’s backstop, and has been among the most consistent hitting catchers in baseball since entering the league in 2014. Realmuto’s athleticism sets him apart from other players at the position. He swiped a career-high 21 bags last season — the most by a catcher since 2000. Unlike other catchers, Realmuto has the speed to turn singles into doubles. Providing a strong bat while playing a premium position, there’s no underselling Realmuto’s value to his club.
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24. Austin Riley
2022 Stats: 38 HR, 93 RBI, 168 H, .273/.349/.528
The powerful righty proved the previous year wasn’t a fluke with yet another strong campaign in ’22. Riley essentially duplicated his 2021 season while providing even more pop. Riley set a career-high of 38 HR and led the entire National League with 325 total bases. Hitting in the middle of Atlanta’s stacked lineup, the Braves routinely called upon Riley to deliver in clutch situations. And, more often than not, Riley responded to the call. At just 25 years old, Riley will only continue to get better as his career progresses.
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23. Rafael Devers
2022 Stats: 27 HR, 88 RBI, 164 H, .295/.358/.521
Outside of a down year during the shortened 2020 campaign, Rafael Devers has been absolutely elite over the last several years. Boston’s third baseman has been named an All-Star each of the last two years. In 2022, Devers slashed .295/.358/.521 — good for a .885 OPS which ranked third in MLB among left-handed hitters. It’s easy to forget Devers is still just 26 years old. He’s been around forever and has always shown the ability to make consistent, loud contact. Devers’ steady approach will never go out of style, as the 26-year-old has years of excellent baseball ahead of him.
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22. Julio Urias
2022 Stats: 17-7, 2.16 ERA, 166 SO, 0.960 WHIP
With Walker Buehler on the mend following Tommy John surgery, Julio Urias enters the 2023 season as the Los Angeles Dodgers’ ace. Despite being one of the best pitchers in baseball for the past two seasons, Urias continues to be overlooked by many. The lefty is 37-10 since 2021 and has a 2.57 ERA in that time — including a National League best 2.16 last season. Urias’ mix of pitches is improving each year he takes the mound. A free agent following the ’23 season, Urias will be the top pitcher on the market next offseason. Will the Dodgers splurge to keep him?
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21. Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
2022 Stats: 32 HR, 97 RBI, 175 H, .274/.339/.480
It was going to be difficult for Vladdy Jr. to live up to the monstrous expectations set out for him. Previously the No. 1 prospect in all of baseball, Guerrero has successfully lived up to the hype. Had it not been for Shohei Othani’s unprecedented two-way campaign in ’21, Guerrero would have been named American League MVP after leading baseball in nearly every major hitting category. Toronto’s first baseman wasn’t quite as dominant last year, but he still hit .274 while mashing 32 HR. And, he was recognized for his defensive efforts earning the AL Gold Glove.
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20. Julio Rodriguez
2022 Stats: 28 HR, 75 RBI, 145 H, 25 SB, .284/.345/.509
The biggest story in baseball last year (during the regular season, at least) was perhaps Julio Rodriguez’s rapid ascent into superstardom. Entering 2022, Rodriguez had not taken even a single at-bat at the Major League level. Through his first 20 games, J-Rod was hitting .204 and was still yet to homer. Game 21 marked Rodriguez’s first career homer and he never looked back from that point forward. Over the remainder of the season, Rodriguez provided plenty of highlights (both at the plate and in the field) and registered a .905 OPS. Since 2000, only six rookies have had an OPS above .905. Five of those players went on to win MVP (Trout, Bellinger, Judge, Pujols, and Abreu) and the last is a two-time All-Star with two Home Run Derby wins (Alonso). We wouldn’t be shocked to see Rodriguez vault up these rankings by this time next year.
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19. Jacob deGrom
2022 Stats: 5-4, 3.08 ERA, 102 SO, 0.746 WHIP
For the second offseason in a row, the second-best team in Texas made huge moves. A year after signing Corey Seager and Marcus Semien to stack the middle infield, Texas bolstered its starting rotation with a slew of moves. In addition to adding Jacob deGrom, the Rangers brought in Nathan Eovaldi and Andrew Heaney. Of course, deGrom is the biggest get of the group. When healthy, deGrom is arguably the best pitcher in baseball. With that being said, deGrom is rarely on the field. The ace has made 38 starts since 2020 — including just 11 last season. Will a change of scenery help keep him on the field? We have our doubts.
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18. Corbin Burnes
2022 Stats: 12-8, 2.94 ERA, 243 SO, 0.965 WHIP
Burnes is a beast — plain and simple. He has an assortment of six pitches which he uses with great effectiveness. His slider is disgusting, and his cutter is nearly unhittable when being launched up to 98 mph. Four of his five professional seasons have included ERA totals under 3.00. Burnes is coming off a career-high (and NL-best) 243 punch-outs in only 202.0 IP. As long as Burnes is leading the Brew Crew, they have a chance to be competitive in the central. If Burnes ever went on the trade market, the Dodgers would be salivating at the thought of bringing back the California native to his home state.
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17. Sandy Alcantara
2022 Stats: 14-9, 2.28 ERA, 207 SO, 0.980 WHIP
MLB’s ironman from a season ago, Sandy Alcantara gutted his way to a National League Cy Young award in ’22. The Marlins’ ace threw 228 innings over 32 starts, compiling six complete games and one shutout. While Alcantara’s fastball exceeds triple digits on the radar gun, the 27-year-old isn’t among the league’s top strikeout producers. Instead, Alcantara relies on an elite sinker-changeup combo to induce weakly hit groundballs. He will only continue to move up this list in the years to come.
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16. Justin Verlander
2022 Stats: 18-4, 1.75 ERA, 185 SO, 0.829 WHIP
New York’s one-two punch are a pair of former Cy Young winners approaching 40 who remain among the top arms in the league. Max Scherzer enjoyed a brilliant season with the Mets last year, but he takes a slight backseat to Justin Verlander — who has won two of the last three Cy Young awards in the American League. Verlander seems to be immune to aging effects, as the 39-year-old hurler was at his very best in 2022. After missing each of the two previous seasons, Verlander returned to the mound and posted a 1.75 ERA over 28 starts. New York is hoping the future Hall of Famer can stay healthier than its previous ace Jacob deGrom.
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15. Ronald Acuna Jr.
2022 Stats: 15 HR, 50 RBI, 124 H, 29 SB, .266/.351/.413
One of the brightest young stars in today’s game, Ronald Acuna Jr. is already an accomplished player at such a young age. The three-time All-Star is the prototype of a five-tool player. Acuna is one of the best power-speed combos in the game today. He launches homers to all parts of the field and possesses arguably the league’s strongest arm in right field. Teams also have to account for his speed as he’s stolen 46 bases over the last two seasons (201 games). Among all active hitters, Acuna likely has the best chance to put together a 40-40 season.
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14. Carlos Correa
2022 Stats: 22 HR, 64 RBI, 152 H, .291/.366/.467
There are a handful of exceptional shortstops in the game today. Though, Carlos Correa might be the most complete baseball player of the bunch. Correa has hit ever since he entered the league. He won Rookie of the Year with Houston after hitting 22 HR in just 99 games. A career .279 hitter, Correa is a player who could easily slot in the middle of any lineup in the league. Defensively, there aren’t many better than the 2021 Gold Glove recipient. With elite range (6-foot-4) and a strong arm, Correa makes difficult plays look routine. His health continues to be an issue, but there’s no doubting his production on the field.
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13. Bryce Harper
2022 Stats: 18 HR, 65 RBI, 106 H, 11 SB, .286/.364/.514
Harper has been on a tear over the last two years. The 2021 regular season ended with Harper earning his second National League MVP trophy after notching a massive 1.044 OPS. Injuries ended his chance at a MVP repeat in 2022, but his monstrous playoff run may have done more for his lasting legacy. Harper was locked in all postseason, registering a .349/.414/.746 slashline with six HR and an NLCS MVP. It silenced several critics who doubted his ability to get it done in big moments, and also reminded everyone just how good Harper can be when he’s settled in.
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12. Juan Soto
2022 Stats: 27 HR, 62 RBI, 127 H, 135 BB, .242/.401/.452
There might not be a better pure hitter in baseball than San Diego’s Juan Soto. The combo of massive power plus elite discipline makes him an impossible matchup for pitchers. Soto is perfectly content drawing out long at-bats, and striking when he receives the pitch he was ultimately looking for. His career .424 on-base percentage is the highest among active players, and he’s led the league in walks in each of the previous two seasons. At 24 years old, Soto is still developing and will be an absolute nightmare for opposing National League teams for years to come.
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11. Freddie Freeman
2022 Stats: 21 HR, 100 RBI, 199 H, 117 R, 13 SB, .325/.407/.511
Following a World Series win with the Braves, six-time All-Star and former MVP Freddie Freeman took his elite bat and glove to Los Angeles last offseason. Though his jersey changed, his output stayed the same. Freeman was once again one of the most consistent hitters in all of baseball, notching a .325 BA and a league-leading .407 OBP. Freeman values every at-bat, and seemingly always puts the ball in play during clutch moments. Entering Year 14 (and Year 2 with the Dodgers), there’s no real weakness in Freeman’s game.
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10. Yordan Alvarez
2022 Stats: 37 HR, 97 RBI, 144 H, .306/.406/.613
Yordan Alvarez is quickly becoming the most feared hitter in baseball. Houston’s superstar has been a stud since his debut in 2019 — he won Rookie of the Year thanks to hitting .313 with 27 HR in 87 games — and he is only getting better. Last season, slashed .306/.406/.613 with a 1.019 OPS and a career-high 37 homers. The third-place MVP finisher slumped in the postseason, but still managed to hit three home runs including a go-ahead, series-winning three-run blast in Game 6 of the World Series.
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9. Trea Turner
2022 Stats: 21 HR, 100 RBI, 194 H, 27 SB, .298/.343/.466
If you sign a 11-year/$300 million contract, you are probably pretty good at your craft. Trea Turner made waves in the offseason when he signed with the defending National League champion Phillies. Turner is an elite shortstop capable of beating teams with his bat and his legs. In a little less than 1.5 seasons with the Dodgers, Turner slashed .307/.353/.490, stole 38 bags, and hit 31 homers. Last year, Turner finished with 194 hits — the second-most in baseball behind former teammate Freddie Freeman. Turner is a gamechanger and should thrive in Philadelphia’s lineup — especially when Bryce Harper returns to the diamond.
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8. Jose Ramirez
2022 Stats: 29 HR, 126 RBI, 168 H, 20 SB, .280/.355/.514
Ramirez has solidified his place among the top position players in the sport. The 5-foot-9 infielder generates immense power in his compact frame (having already slugged 192 home runs in his short career). There have been slumps in the past, but Ramirez’s hot streaks are unlike any other player.
Last season, JoRam finished fourth for the American League MVP and was named an All-Star for the second year in a row. In addition to hitting an AL-leading 44 doubles, Ramirez finished with 29 HR, 126 RBI, 20 stolen bases, and was intentionally walked 20 times — the highest mark in baseball. Cleveland has a true superstar manning the hot corner.
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7. Nolan Arenado
2022 Stats: 30 HR, 103 RBI, 163 H, .293/.358/.533
Colorado’s decision to trade Nolan Arenado looks worse and worse with each passing year. After seeing his average dip to .255 in his first year as a Cardinal, Arenado brought his A-game in 2022. The California native slashed .293/.358/.533 with 30 HR and 103 RBI. Arenado once again excelled in the field, as well. The future Hall of Famer won his 10th Gold Glove — and sixth Platinum Glove — at third base, earned his fifth Silver Slugger, was named an All-Star for the seventh time, and finished third for the National League MVP. When combining Arenado’s greatness in the field with his work at the dish, it is hard to find many players who can match his overall production.
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6. Manny Machado
2022 Stats: 32 HR, 102 RBI, 172 H, 9 SB, .298/.366/.531
Between Jose Ramirez, Nolan Arenado and Manny Machado, third base is certainly not lacking elite talent. A recent recipient of an 11-year/$350 million extension, Machado has long been one of the best players in baseball. He is a vacuum at third and possesses a cannon of an arm which allows him to make plays others are simply incapable of making. The runner-up for the National League MVP last season, Machado enjoyed his best year at the plate over the course of a full-season — he was spectacular in 2020, but the season was 60 games. Machado hit around .300 all year long, and finished with 32 HR and 102 RBI for the Padres. It is no surprise that the Padres locked Machado up for the rest of his career.
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5. Paul Goldschmidt
2022 Stats: 35 HR, 115 RBI, 178 H, .317/.404/.578
Like his teammate Nolan Arenado, Paul Goldschmidt was dealt to St. Louis by a team residing in the National League West. While a member of the Diamondbacks, Goldschmidt was a six-time All-Star and finished in the top-three for the NL MVP three times — including two runner-up finishes. Entering last season, Goldy had been very good with the Cardinals but hadn’t quite matched his great years while in Arizona. Well, that changed in 2022. Goldschmidt smacked 35 HR, hit .317, and set career-highs in SLG (.578) and OPS (.981) — both of which led the NL. When also factoring in Goldschmidt’s great work at first base, the veteran star was an easy pick to win the NL MVP.
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4. Mookie Betts
2022 Stats: 35 HR, 82 RBI, 154 H, 12 SB, 117 R, .269/.340/.533
Los Angeles may not have as many stars on its roster as last year’s team did, but Freddie Freeman and Mookie Betts are a pretty spectacular duo. After battling a painful hip injury for most of the 2021 season, Betts was back to being himself in ’22. The former MVP led the National League with 117 runs and hit a career-high 35 home runs. With his mix of power, speed on the basepaths and elite fielding, Betts is one of baseball’s most gifted talents. After finishing fifth for the NL MVP last season, we expect Betts to make a push for the award this year as he spearheads a suddenly-underrated Dodger squad into the postseason yet again.
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3. Aaron Judge
2022 Stats: 62 HR, 131 RBI, 177 H, 16 SB, 133 R, .311/.425/.686
In 2022, Aaron Judge went from being an All-Star level player to a man whose name will never be forgotten. A three-time All-Star and former Rookie of the Year entering the ’22 season, Judge took his game to historic heights last summer. New York’s star attraction set an American League-record with 62 home runs and led baseball in a slew of categories. Judge paced baseball in runs (133), RBI (131), OBP (.425), SLG (.686), and OPS (1.111). Judge nearly captured the Triple Crown, as well. His .311 BA trailed only Luis Arraez’s .316 mark. Oh, and Judge also stole a career-best 16 bases. Let’s see what he will do for an encore.
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2. Mike Trout
2022 Stats: 40 HR, 80 RBI, 124 H, .283/.369/.630
Last year, we had Mike Trout ranked No. 1. One of the best players in the history of the game, Trout didn’t do anything last year to warrant a fall from his perch. A three-time American League MVP and four-time runner-up for the award, Trout was outstanding last year when he was on the field. Of course, Trout’s health has been a lingering concern for a few years now. After appearing in just 36 games in 2021 due to a calf injury, Trout played in 119 games last year. In that time, Trout launched 40 homers. He has not attempted to steal bases in a few years, but Trout remains a factor while on the move. An elite hitter and competent fielder, No. 27 remains a top-two player in the game entering 2023.
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1. Shohei Ohtani
2022 Stats (Batting): 34 HR, 95 RBI, 160 H, 11 SB, .273/.356/.519
2022 Stats (Pitching): 15-9, 2.33 ERA, 219 SO, 1.012 WHIP
Shohei Ohtani is in a class of his own. After winning the 2021 American League MVP, Ohtani was even better in ’22. And while Aaron Judge’s performance at the plate last year certainly warranted an MVP, Ohtani arguably was robbed of his second MVP in a row. The greatest two-way player of all-time saw his power numbers dip a bit last year, but he improved overall at the dish. Ohtani finished with a higher batting average, notched 22 more hits, cut down on his strike outs, and still hit 34 HR and drove in 95 runs.
However, it was on the mound where Ohtani truly starred. The superstar had an incredible year on the mound. Not only did he go 15-9, but Ohtani set career-highs across the board with a 2.33 ERA, 219 strikeouts, 11.9 SO9, and a 1.012 WHIP. For his efforts, Ohtani finished fourth for the AL Cy Young. To deny a player who hit 34 HR and finished fourth for the Cy Young an MVP is slightly ridiculous. If he is healthy and performing even close to these numbers in ’23, Ohtani deserves to win his second MVP.
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MLB in 2023: Top Prospect for All 30 Teams
Arizona Diamondbacks — Corbin Carroll
Projected ETA: 2023 (No. 2 Overall Prospect)
Most ranking services have Carroll currently slated as a top-five prospect in all of baseball. Some even have him pegged as arguably the best player toiling away in the Minor Leagues (though he’ll probably start the season with the big club in Arizona). Carroll initially signed with UCLA before turning pro after being drafted in the first round by the Diamondbacks.
He possesses elite speed — which should serve him quite well both stealing bases and patrolling an outfield spot. His hand-eye coordination is excellent, and Carroll’s swing projects to be quite capable as a doubles/gap hitter. He’s a bit on the smaller side (5-foot-10, 170 pounds). However, all of the tools are there for him to be an impact player right away. If you’re looking for a MLB comparison, look no further than former All-Star/fellow Pacific Northwest native Jacoby Ellsbury.
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Atlanta Braves — Owen Murphy
Projected ETA: 2025
Atlanta’s pipeline is running hot after producing two recent stars in Spencer Strider and Michael Harris. There is no shortage of talent remaining in the Braves organization, starting with RHP Owen Murphy. The 19-year-old was a first-round pick in 2022. He’s projects to one day be a starter in the Majors, but Murphy is a legitimate two-way prospect who has shown exceptional talent at the dish as well. That kind of versatility could be vital for the Braves moving forward.
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Baltimore Orioles — Gunnar Henderson
Projected ETA: 2023 (No. 1 Overall Prospect)
Henderson won’t be considered a prospect for very long. He had an impressive cup of coffee with the Orioles last year. As we head into 2023, many peg him as a favorite to win the Rookie of the Year award. If you’re looking for some sort of comparison, we liken Henderson to a mix of Scott Rolen and Nolan Arenado.
He can play both at shortstop and third base — namely because he’s got a huge arm and plus athleticism. Henderson’s soft hands plus lateral quickness cater to him having immense upside as a defender. As a hitter, the lefty has constantly made adjustments in seeking to lessen his strikeout totals, and ‘up’ his contact. The power is there for Henderson to mash, and he’s also fast enough to be a threat running the bases. As such, it’s not surprising to see such a well-rounded prospect check in at No 1. There’s really no weakness to his game at this given point.
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Boston Red Sox — Marcelo Mayer
Projected ETA: 2024 (No. 9 Overall Prospect)
We talk about toolsy players all the time. Mayer epitomizes that considerably. Hailing from San Diego, he was the National High School Player of the Year as a senior. Boston took him No. 4 overall in the 2021 MLB Draft.
It’s been a bit of a mixed bag for him thus far. He’s been battling with some nagging injuries (though at only 20 years of age, he should be fine). As was his reputation in high school, Mayer’s transition to hitting the baseball on the Minor League level has been smooth. He has power to all fields, and his approach at the plate is truly special. We’ll see if he sticks long-term at shortstop (Mayer is 6-foot-3). At the very least, you’re looking at a professional hitter with some big-time upside. Think Corey Seager with a better glove/arm.
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Chicago Cubs — Pete Crow-Armstrong
Projected ETA: 2024 (No. 28 Overall Prospect)
Formerly a top prospect for the New York Mets, Pete Crow-Armstrong was shipped to the Cubs in 2021 in exchange for Javier Baez. A left-handed hitter and thrower, Crow-Armstrong projects to be an everyday outfielder at the next level. Since joining Chicago, the youngster has increased his skill at the plate — and is showing signs of 20+ HR pop. However, Chicago’s top prospect truly shines in the field. Utilizing his elite speed, Crow-Armstrong is able to chase down balls gap-to-gap in centerfield. Additionally, his knack for running precise routes results in making more difficult plays than most. In 2022, Crow-Armstrong hit .312 and stole 32 bases.
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Chicago White Sox — Colson Montgomery
Projected ETA: 2024 (No. 38 Overall Prospect)
When Colson Montgomery eventually gets the call-up, he’ll be a rather unique player for his position. Montgomery is the rare left-handed hitting shortstop that we don’t see all too often. Much like Oneil Cruz and Corey Seager, Montgomery possesses a tall frame (6-foot-4) which allows him to generate power to all parts of the field. While some believe he could eventually be moved to another position, the White Sox are confident that Montgomery will be able to play an adequate shortstop despite his growth.
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Cincinnati Reds — Elly De La Cruz
Projected ETA: 2023 (No. 10 Overall Prospect)
De La Cruz is the perfect example of a home run international signing. Back in 2018, De La Cruz signed for a measly $65,000. Easily the most exciting position player in Cincinnati’s organization — Hunter Greene is electric on the mound — the 21-year-old should make an impact with the Reds in 2023. Capable of playing shortstop, third base and second base, De La Cruz is a true five-tool player. Last season, the 6-foot-5 rising star slashed .304/.359/.586 with 28 HR and 47 SB. This is a name that all fans should remember.
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Cleveland Guardians — Daniel Espino
Projected ETA: 2023 (No. 16 Overall Prospect)
Already the youngest team in baseball, you have to love how the Guardians have approached team-building. Cleveland won the AL Central last year despite having a roster littered with inexperience. And, even more reinforcements could be on the way. Cleveland’s top-6 prospects are between 22-and-23 years of age, meaning we could see at least a few of them as early as 2023. That list includes righty Daniel Espino, who boasts one of the most electric arms in the Minors. His fastball exceeds triple-digits as he compiled 152 K’s in 91.2 IP last season.
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Colorado Rockies — Ezequiel Tovar
Projected ETA: 2023 (No. 25 Overall Prospect)
The shortstop out of Venezuela signed with the Rockies when he was only 16 years old. He’s quickly moved through the farm system and appears primed to — at the very least — start the year in Colorado with the big league club. Tovar is known for two things: His ability to field the baseball, and his prowess in hitting it. Tovar accumulated a .319 batting average and a .927 OPS across both Double-A and Triple-A last year. At only 21 years of age, the top-30 prospect has a terrific ceiling. As everyone also knows, playing at Coors Field won’t do anything to hurt his prospects in potentially becoming an above-average hitter on the highest level.
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Detroit Tigers — Jackson Jobe
Projected ETA: 2025 (No. 63 Overall Prospect)
Jobe boasts high upside for a Tigers organization that desperately needs to hit on a few of these draft picks. Several draft pundits believe the Tigers reached a bit for Jobe, but the organization took a risk on the Oklahoma product and are hoping it pans out. Jobe’s fastball sits in the mid 90’s, but his best pitch by far is a wicked slider. Already having a strikeout pitch so refined means that Jobe should be able to find some early success when he does finally receive a Major League call-up.
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Houston Astros — Hunter Brown
Projected ETA: 2023 (No. 43 Overall Prospect)
It is never easy to lose a pitcher of Justin Verlander’s caliber, but the Houston Astros might soon have another frontline ace atop their rotation. Hunter Brown debuted last season and was rather dominant in his short stint. In seven regular season appearances (two starts), Brown posted a 0.89 ERA and allowed two runs in 20.1 IP. In the playoffs, Brown pitched 3.2 innings and didn’t surrender a run. Brown’s four-seam fastball sits at 95-97 mph and peaks at 100. Coupled with a power curve and a cutter that evades bats, Brown has three pitches that will make him into a star in short order.
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Kansas City Royals — Gavin Cross
Projected ETA: 2025 (No. 62 Overall Prospect)
Gavin Cross parlayed an excellent collegiate career into being selected ninth overall by the Royals in 2022. Possessing a plus-bat and a solid arm, Cross projects as a corner outfielder in the bigs. The lefty was excellent in 2022 making appearances for two Royals affiliates. In 29 games, Cross mashed 17 XBH and has a OPS of 1.070. The Royals are not a team built to win right now. As such, the organization will need to develop players like Cross who could be available once the team is ready to compete again.
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Los Angeles Angels — Logan O’Hoppe
Projected ETA: 2023 (No. 53 Overall Prospect)
Last August, the Angels traded Brandon Marsh to the Philadelphia Phillies for a prospect. That prospect turned out to be pretty damn good (so far). Upon joining the Angels’ Double-A team, Logan O’Hoppe smashed 11 HR and hit .306 in 29 games. As a result, the catcher was called up to the Angels for the final five games of the season. O’Hoppe has a reputation for working well with pitchers, has great blocking skills behind the dish, and has a quick release coupled with a strong arm. There is a chance O’Hoppe is starting at catcher for the Angels on Opening Day. If that is the case, he may be a strong bet to win the American League Rookie of the Year.
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Los Angeles Dodgers — Diego Cartaya
Projected ETA: 2023 (No. 14 Overall Prospect)
Cartaya is the most talented prospect within the deepest farm system in the Major Leagues. For years, other teams have tried prying him away from the Dodgers in trades for big league talent. Of course, the Dodgers relented — knowing that they’ve got a potential star on their hands. Cartaya is a big guy at 6-foot-3 and roughly 220 pounds. His bat-to-ball skills have been lauded dating back to when he signed as a free agent from Venezuela.
He does struggle a bit when it comes to defending behind the plate (despite possessing a high-level arm). Still, you’re looking at a guy who could perennially hit 30+ homers and hit close to .300. Most people compare him to Salvador Perez with a higher ceiling. Even with Will Smith behind the dish for the Dodgers right now, Cartaya is good enough to the point where Smith may be moved elsewhere just to get Cartaya’s bat into the lineup. He’s simply that promising as a prospect.
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Miami Marlins — Eury Perez
Projected ETA: 2023 (No. 13 Overall Prospect)
The Marlins always seem to have a handful of gifted pitchers in their pipeline. We saw former No. 3 overall pick Max Meyer get the call-up last year. 2019 international signing Eury Perez could be the next Miami pitching prospect to make the jump. While Meyer is able to generate a ton of torque in a rather compact frame, Perez is a physical specimen who uses his size to his advantage. The 6-foot-8 righty throws a high 90’s fastball and can keep hitters off-balance with a plus changeup and curve. He struggled with control last season, but Perez has already notched 218 K’s across 155 IP.
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Milwaukee Brewers — Jackson Chourio
Projected ETA: 2024 (No. 8 Overall Prospect)
Jackson Chourio signed with Milwaukee in 2021. While Chourio was a shortstop at the time, he is now patrolling the outfield. Turning 19 in March, the Venezuela native was the youngest player in last year’s All-Star Futures Game. Chourio possesses 70-grade speed, has tremendous pop, and hits the ball hard to all parts of the field. Chourio hit 20 HR and stole 16 bases in the Minors last year (across three levels), and figures to spend all of 2023 in AA/AAA. As his plate discipline improves, Chourio will only become more lethal with the bat in his hands.
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Minnesota Twins — Brooks Lee
Projected ETA: 2024 (No. 31 Overall Prospect)
Minnesota’s former first-round pick might have the best hit-tool of any prospect in baseball. Brooks Lee is a switch-hitting shortstop who already has elite bat-to-ball skills. This is a guy who slashed .357/.462/.664 in his final year of college ball — leading some to believe he could go first overall. Lee ended up sliding to eight overall where the Twins scooped him up. In his first taste of Minor League pitching last year, Lee hit .303 and walked nearly as often as he struck out. Lee will get the call-up very soon, and will instantly be a plus-bat for the Twins lineup.
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New York Mets — Francisco Alvarez
Projected ETA: 2023 (No. 3 Overall Prospect)
Alvarez is a star-in-waiting. A gifted hitter who plays a premium defensive position, Alvarez is the type of prospect who only comes around every few years. Even if he didn’t play catcher, teams would remain enamored with his ability to handle the bat. Alvarez has registered a career .910 OPS in Minor League play, and has shown the ability to prolong at-bats and draw walks. In his most recent stay in AAA, Alvarez boasted a .382 OBP. We saw him for five games in the Majors last year — where he notched his first career HR — and he will be one of the early favorites to take home NL Rookie of the Year in 2023.
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New York Yankees — Anthony Volpe
Projected ETA: 2023 (No. 5 Overall Prospect)
We’ve been hearing about this name for years. Those in the Bronx have been salivating over the prospect who many hope turns into the next Derek Jeter. While that’s some considerable (and potentially out-of-reach) hype, there’s a lot to like about Volpe’s game.
By game, we’re of course speaking about his bat. In 2021, he slugged 20+ homers and stole 50+ bases. He crushes fastballs to all parts of the park (though sometimes struggles against off-speed stuff). Manager Aaron Boone has been highly-complimentary of Volpe for his leadership qualities as well as his work ethic. While he might not be the starter at shortstop this year (Oswald Peraza is the favorite), Volpe still has a nice upside — if for nothing else his bat and his makeup as a human.
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Oakland Athletics — Tyler Soderstrom
Projected ETA: 2023 (No. 39 Overall Prospect)
If you are a fan of the Oakland Athletics, you don’t have too much to look forward to this season. The A’s have gone from a contender to one of the worst team’s in baseball in the blink of an eye. When looking at MLB.com’s Top 100 Prospects, Oakland has just two players in the mix. A 1B/C drafted out of Turlock High School in California in 2020, Tyler Soderstrom is the club’s top prospect. The son of a former Major Leaguer, Soderstrom is an advanced hitter for his age. He makes hard contact, possesses good bat speed, and is smart in the box. Last season, Soderstrom slashed .267/.324/.501 with 29 HR and 105 RBI in the Minors. It remains to be seen where he will play in the field once he joins the A’s, but Soderstrom’s ability at the plate will likely put him in the middle of the lineup.
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Philadelphia Phillies — Andrew Painter
Projected ETA: 2023 (No. 6 Overall Prospect)
The 19-year-old Painter has already shown signs of being a strong draft pick for the Phillies. The defending NL champions selected Painter straight out of high school back in the 2021 draft. The powerful righty has three plus-pitchers — including a fastball which reaches 98 MPH, a deceptive slider, and a sharp curve. Last season, Painter boasted a sterling 1.56 ERA over three different leagues. If he keeps that up, the Phillies will have no choice but to call up the 6-foot-7 phenom sooner rather than later.
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Pittsburgh Pirates — Termarr Johnson
Projected ETA: 2025 (No. 26 Overall Prospect)
While Pittsburgh’s Major League team isn’t brimming with talent — with the exception of Bryan Reynolds, Ke’Bryan Hayes and Oneil Cruz — it does have a potential gem developing in the Minors. Despite standing at a mere 5-foot-7, Termarr Johnson is viewed as a potential star at second base. Johnson has an elite bat. Blessed with tremendous hand-eye coordination, Johnson makes contact at a ridiculous rate. He hits for power and contact with ease, and does equally well against speed and break. It may take a few years for him to play for the Pirates, but Johnson will form one of the league’s best middle infields alongside Cruz.
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San Diego Padres — Jackson Merrill
Projected ETA: 2024 (No. 19 Overall Prospect)
Merrill is a unique prospect. Playing the shortstop position, he’s got a big frame at 6-foot-3. However, unlike others who’ve recently played the position at that height (Troy Tulowitzki, Corey Seager), he’s more prone to hitting doubles than slugging for homers. We’re curious as to whether he’ll stick there long-term. Looking at the Padres’ current roster, he’ll be blocked playing pretty much anywhere in the infield (unless Manny Machado leaves as a free agent). If you’re the Padres, Merrill can be used as a very attractive trade chip down the line. Or, you’ll be plenty pleased with a high average guy who tends to put the ball in play with some positional versatility.
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San Francisco Giants — Kyle Harrison
Projected ETA: 2023 (No. 18 Overall Prospect)
We like Harrison a whole lot. The left-handed hurler totally fits the mold of what has made San Francisco so successful over the last 20 years. He’s a low ERA pitcher with elite stuff — plain and simple. Even more exciting for those in the Bay, Harrison has untapped potential which could ultimately skyrocket him into being one of baseball’s most prized prospects. There’s no reason to think he won’t continue to refine his overall game. Should he continue improving his command, Harrison will take an even bigger jump up from the top-20 prospect standing he’s already enjoying as of Feb. 2023.
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Seattle Mariners — Harry Ford
Projected ETA: 2025 (No. 49 Overall Prospect)
A lot of eyes will be on the Mariners in 2023, and prospects like Harry Ford give good reason to believe eyes will be on the M’s for years to come. The No. 12 pick in 2021, Ford does a great job recognizing pitches at the dish and sprays the ball all over the park. His athleticism would play at any position, but is particularly impressive for a catcher. Ford has plus speed, a strong arm, big raw power, and is agile behind the plate. Only 20 years old, Ford has time to develop his craft and likely won’t breakthrough to the Majors for another few years.
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St. Louis Cardinals — Jordan Walker
Projected ETA: 2023 (No. 4 Overall Prospect)
Entering 2023, Jordan Walker is a frontrunner to win the National League Rookie of the Year award. Turning 21 in May, Walker made the switch from third base to right field last year due to Nolan Arenado occupying the hot corner for the Cardinals. At 6-foot-5 and 250 pounds, Walker possesses a ton of power. Walker still needs time to develop his skill in the outfield, but his huge arm should help make the transition a bit easier. Through his first two years in the Minors, Walker has hit .310 with 33 HR, 116 RBI and 36 SB. Walker has the look of a future superstar.
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Tampa Bay Rays — Taj Bradley
Projected ETA: 2023 (No. 20 Overall Prospect)
Bradley is among the best pitching prospects in all of the Minor Leagues. We have to credit Tampa Bay for unearthing these gems — particularly as it pertains to pitchers. Bradley is only 21 years old, yet possesses three great pitches which include a fastball touching upwards of 97 MPH, a heavy cutter/slider hybrid, and a hard splitter. Even better for Bradley and the Rays, he rarely walks batters. Don’t be shocked to see Bradley debut for the Rays at some point this season. You’re looking at a future top of the rotation talent.
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Texas Rangers — Josh Jung
Projected ETA: 2023 (No. 34 Overall Prospect)
The Rangers are a team on the rise. In addition to the front office spending big money on All-Star players and bringing in Bruce Bochy to manage the team, the franchise has six prospects included in MLB.com’s Top-100. Leading the charge is Josh Jung — a 25-year-old third baseman who made his debut last year. Jung is a good hitter — after hitting .348 in college, he hit .311 over three seasons in the Minors. His approach became more aggressive last season, and he struggled at times to adjust to Major League pitching. We expect Jung to look more comfortable this year. If he fulfills his potential, Jung can hit .300 and slug 20-30 homers.
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Toronto Blue Jays — Ricky Tiedemann
Projected ETA: 2024 (No. 32 Overall Prospect)
The Blue Jays’ current pitching rotation is loaded with depth and veteran talent. Yet, there’s still the need to cultivate young up-and-coming arms in the event of an injury or poor play. One of those options is Tiedemann. The big lefty is an imposing figure on the mound. He won’t necessarily blow anyone away with plus-plus stuff. However, the natural movement Tiedemann gets on the ball is impressive. We’re talking about a darting changeup and a wicked slider.
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Washington Nationals — James Wood
Projected ETA: 2025 (No. 17 Overall Prospect)
Washington boasts a trio of talented outfielders atop its prospect rankings, but the one with the most intriguing upside is 20-year-old James Wood. The 6-foot-7, 240-pound Wood is a tremendous athlete who previously excelled as a high school basketball player. Teams are always in search of that next, great power-speed threat. Somebody like Wood fits the bill. His size alone allows him to generate plenty of pop, but he’s also exceptionally fast on the bases for a player his size. The Nats need Wood to breakout at some point — as he was the core piece in the deal Washington received in exchange for Juan Soto.
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